Quinoa and Avocado Salad
A light, refreshing salad featuring fluffy quinoa, creamy avocado, crisp vegetables, and a zesty lime dressing.
- Author: sarra
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boiling & Mixing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegan
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups water
- 1 large avocado, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup cucumber, diced
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tablespoons)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer 12–15 minutes until water is absorbed and quinoa is tender. Fluff with a fork and let cool slightly.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
- In a large bowl, combine cooled quinoa, diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and cilantro.
- Pour dressing over the salad and gently toss to coat, being careful not to mash the avocado.
- Adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lime juice as desired.
- Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 20 minutes to meld flavors.
Notes
- For extra protein, stir in ½ cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained.
- Add crumbled feta or goat cheese for a creamy, tangy twist.
- Make ahead: cook quinoa and chop vegetables up to 1 day in advance; assemble just before serving.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days; best enjoyed fresh.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 270
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: quinoa, avocado, salad, gluten free, vegan, healthy, light