Looking for a quick, healthy, and absolutely delicious salad? Let me introduce you to the star of your next meal: Quinoa and Avocado Salad! This recipe is light, refreshing, and packed with nutrients that’ll keep you feeling great. Plus, it’s super easy to make—no fancy skills required.
What’s So Great About This Salad?
This isn’t just any salad. It’s:
- Protein-packed: Thanks to quinoa, which is a complete protein.
- Creamy and dreamy: Hello, avocado!
- Full of crunch: With fresh veggies to keep things interesting.
- Ready in minutes: Because who has time for complicated recipes?
Ingredients You’ll Need
For 2 servings, you’ll need:
- 1 cup cooked quinoa (about ½ cup raw)
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 2-3 handfuls of fresh spinach or arugula
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: fresh parsley, sesame seeds, or chopped nuts
How to Make the Quinoa and Avocado Salad
Step 1: Cook the Quinoa
- Rinse ½ cup of quinoa under cold water (this removes the bitterness).
- Add it to a pot with 1 cup of water and a pinch of salt.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for about 15 minutes, or until the water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and let it cool.
Step 2: Prep the Veggies
While the quinoa cools:
- Dice the avocado and cucumber.
- Halve the cherry tomatoes.
- Wash and dry the spinach or arugula.
Step 3: Mix the Salad
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, spinach, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and avocado.
- Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice.
- Season with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Add the Final Touch
- Toss everything gently so you don’t mash the avocado.
- Sprinkle some parsley, sesame seeds, or nuts on top if you’re feeling fancy.
Why You’ll Love This Salad
- It’s customizable. Don’t have spinach? Use lettuce. No cucumber? Add bell peppers.
- It’s meal-prep friendly. Make a big batch of quinoa and chop the veggies ahead of time. Just add avocado before serving to keep it fresh.
- It’s a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or impressing friends, this salad is always a hit.
Bonus Tips
- Want more protein? Add chickpeas, grilled tofu, or roasted nuts.
- Like it spicy? Toss in some chili flakes or a drizzle of sriracha.
- Need a crunch? Croutons or roasted pumpkin seeds are game-changers.
This Quinoa and Avocado Salad is proof that healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring—or time-consuming. It’s vibrant, flavorful, and so satisfying that you won’t even miss the heavy dressings or cheese from other salads.
Try it today, and let your taste buds dance with joy!
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