Ingredients
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
– 2 cups water
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, packed
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1 medium cucumber, chopped
– 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
– ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
– ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: ¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled
– Optional: ¼ cup sunflower seeds or nuts of your choice
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your Quinoa Avocado Spinach Power Salad:
1. Cook Quinoa: In a small pot, bring the two cups of water to a boil. Stir in quinoa, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
2. Prepare Vegetables: While the quinoa is cooking, chop the spinach, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, and tomatoes. Place them in a large salad bowl.
3. Add Cooked Quinoa: Once the quinoa has finished cooking and is fluffed, add it to the salad bowl with the prepared vegetables.
4. Incorporate Avocado: Gently fold in the diced avocado, being careful not to mash it.
5. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
6. Mix Everything: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine all the ingredients.
7. Optional Add-ins: If desired, add crumbled feta cheese and sunflower seeds for added flavor and texture.
8. Serve: Enjoy the salad immediately, or refrigerate for a short while to allow the flavors to meld.
Following these straightforward steps will yield a wonderfully healthful and satisfying dish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Fat: 16g
- Protein: 9g