Quinoa and Avocado Salad Recipe

Ingredients:

– 1 cup quinoa

– 2 cups water

– 1 large avocado, diced

– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

– 1 cucumber, diced

– 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped

– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

– 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped

– 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– 1 tablespoon lemon juice

– Salt and pepper to taste

 

Instructions:

 

1. Cook the Quinoa:

– Rinse the quinoa under cold water to remove any bitterness.

– In a medium saucepan, combine the quinoa and water. Bring to a boil.

– Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is tender and the water is absorbed.

– Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and let it cool.

 

2. Prepare the Vegetables:

– While the quinoa is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Dice the avocado and cucumber, halve the cherry tomatoes, and finely chop the red onion, parsley, and mint.

 

3. Make the Dressing:

– Whisk togeWhiskmon juice, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.

 

4. Assemble the Salad:

in a small bowl – In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, avocado, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, parsley, and mint.

– Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.

– If desired, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese on top.

 

5. Serve and Enjoy:

– Serve the salad immediately or refrigerate for 15-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

– This salad can be enjoyed on its own or as a side dish.

 

Health Benefits

This Quinoa and Avocado Salad is not just a feast for the eyes and taste buds, but it also comes with numerous health benefits:

– Quinoa: A complete protein source, quinoa provides all nine essential amino acids. It’s also high in fiber, which aids in digestion and keeps you feeling full longer.

– Avocado: Rich in healthy monounsaturated fats, avocados help maintain heart health and provide essential nutrients like potassium and vitamin E.

– Vegetables: The tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion add a variety of vitamins and minerals, along with antioxidants that fight inflammation and promote overall health.

– Herbs: Fresh parsley and mint enhance the flavor and offer digestive benefits and additional vitamins.

– Olive Oil: A staple of the Mediterranean diet, olive oil is rich in antioxidants and healthy fats that support heart health and reduce inflammation.

– Feta Cheese (optional): Adds a tangy flavor and a dose of calcium and protein, though it can be omitted for a vegan version of the salad.

 

Conclusion

This Quinoa and Avocado Salad is a perfect example of how you can enjoy a healthy, balanced meal without spending hours enjoying nutritious, easy-to-make, and incredibly delicious. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a refreshing side dish, or a light dinner, this salad is sure to satisfy.

Incorporate more healthy recipes like this into your diet and join the Viva Healthy Products community as we strive to promote vibrant health and well-being through delicious, wholesome food. Enjoy your journey to better health, one tasty bite at a time!