Vibrant Avocado and Quinoa Salad

Boost your day with the vibrant flavors of this Avocado and Quinoa Salad! Packed with nutritious quinoa, creamy avocado, and crisp vegetables, it’s a satisfying and wholesome meal.

• Ingredients for 6 servings:

Salad:
– 2 cups of water (480 mL)
– Salt, to your taste
– 1 cup of quinoa (170 g), rinsed
– 2 cups of fresh spinach (80 g), roughly chopped
– 1 large cucumber, finely diced
– 4 roma tomatoes, diced
– 2 ripe avocados, peeled, pitted, and diced
– Juice of 1 lemon
– 4 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
– Pepper, to your taste

• Instructions:

1. Prepare the Quinoa:
– In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt and stir in the rinsed quinoa.
– 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 cool.

2. Assemble the Salad:
– In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, chopped spinach, diced cucumber, and tomatoes.
– Arrange the diced avocados on top of the salad mixture.
– Drizzle the lemon juice and extra virgin olive oil over the salad.
– Season with salt and pepper to your liking.
– Gently toss all the ingredients together until well combined.

3. Serve and Enjoy:
– Once the salad is evenly mixed, divide it onto serving plates or bowls.
– Optionally, garnish with additional lemon slices or fresh herbs.
– Serve immediately and savor the freshness and nourishment of this Avocado and Quinoa Salad!

• Additional Tips:

– Customize this salad by adding your favorite vegetables or incorporating protein sources such as grilled chicken, tofu, or chickpeas.
– Elevate the flavor profile with ingredients like crumbled feta cheese, toasted nuts, or dried fruits.
– For meal prep, this salad can be made in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Add the avocado and dressing just before serving to maintain freshness.