This Avocado Quinoa Salad is a fresh, vibrant, and nourishing dish packed with wholesome ingredients. With creamy avocado, zesty lime, and protein-rich quinoa, it’s perfect for a light meal or a healthy side.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This salad is incredibly refreshing and easy to make in minutes. The creamy avocado pairs beautifully with the fluffy quinoa, while lime juice and cilantro add a bright, zesty flavor. It’s naturally healthy, filling, and perfect for meal prep or quick lunches.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups cooked quinoa (red or tricolor)
- 8 ounces Haas avocado (about 2 small), diced
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 ripe beefsteak or heirloom tomato, diced
- 2 mini cucumbers, diced
- 1/3 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/3 cup chopped red onion
- 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced with seeds
- 1 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt (plus more to taste)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine quinoa, tomato, cucumbers, cilantro, red onion, and jalapeño.
- Add diced avocado and drizzle with lime juice and olive oil.
- Gently toss everything together until well combined.
- Season with salt to taste and adjust lime juice if needed.
- Serve immediately for the freshest flavor.
Tips & Tricks
- Use ripe but firm avocados to avoid mushiness.
- Rinse quinoa well before cooking to remove bitterness.
- Add avocado just before serving to keep it fresh and vibrant.
- Reduce jalapeño or remove seeds for a milder taste
Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes (for quinoa)
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-cook (after quinoa)
- Cuisine: Healthy / Mediterranean-Inspired
- Difficulty: Easy
- Dietary Notes: Vegan, Gluten-Free, Halal-friendly
Notes
You can add chickpeas or grilled chicken for extra protein. This salad also pairs well with grilled fish or wraps.
Nutrition (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 7g
- Carbs: 30g
- Fat: 15g
FAQ
Can I make Avocado Quinoa Salad ahead of time?
Yes, but add the avocado right before serving to prevent browning.
How long does it stay fresh?
Up to 2 days in the fridge without avocado added.
Can I use bottled lime juice?
Fresh lime juice is recommended for best flavor.
Is quinoa necessary?
You can substitute with couscous or bulgur, but quinoa keeps it gluten-free.
How do I reduce the spice?
Remove jalapeño seeds or skip it entirely.
Storage
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep avocado separate if prepping ahead. Do not freeze.
Similar Recipes
Avocado Quinoa Salad Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups cooked quinoa red or tricolor
- 8 ounces Haas avocado about 2 small, diced
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 ripe beefsteak or heirloom tomato diced
- 2 mini cucumbers diced
- 1/3 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/3 cup chopped red onion
- 1 jalapeño thinly sliced with seeds
- 1 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt plus more to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine quinoa, tomato, cucumbers, cilantro, red onion, and jalapeño.
- Add diced avocado and drizzle with lime juice and olive oil.
- Gently toss everything together until well combined.
- Season with salt to taste and adjust lime juice if needed.
- Serve immediately for the freshest flavor.
Notes
Conclusion
This Avocado Quinoa Salad is a simple, nourishing recipe that delivers freshness in every bite. Whether you’re meal prepping or making a quick lunch, it’s a healthy option you’ll keep coming back to.