A recipe for quinoa salad with avocado is a great thing to have handy. This is a healthy side dish or light meal that is packed with protein. It is perfect for guests when you want a unique and healthful part of your meal. Learn how to prepare this great tasting dish.
Avocado Quinoa Salad
What you will need:
-3 tbs of raisins (a mix of golden and dark is perfect)
-2 tbs of dried apricots, sliced thinly
-1 cup of red quinoa (rinsed)
-1 lemon
-3 tbs olive oil
-1/4 tsp ground coriander
-1/4 tsp ground cumin
-1/4 tsp sweet paprika
-2 medium, ripe, pitted, peeled, and cubed avocados
-2 scallions
-2-3 tbs chopped almonds
-salt and pepper
First soak the raisins and apricots in hot water for about five minutes, drain and then set them aside. In a 2-quart sauce pan bring 2 cups of salted water and the quinoa to a boil over high heat. Cover and reduce the heat to low and let it simmer until the water is absorbed and the quinoa is tender, which should be about 10 minutes. Use a fork to fluff the quinoa, and then transfer it to a large bowl to cool off to room temperature.
While that is cooling, you can now make the dressing. Finely grate the lemon, collecting the zest in a small bowl. Squeeze a tablespoon of lemon juice into it as well. Whisk the lemon zest with the juice and add the olive oil, paprika, cumin, coriander, and a quarter teaspoon of salt. Toss this with quinoa so it is evenly coated. Add the raisins, apricots, avocado, scallions, and the almonds. Salt and pepper to taste and then it is ready to serve.
There are variations to this dish. For more of a spicy version, switch the dried fruit out with fresh mangos. Add some cilantro and jalapeno to the dressing. You can also add in black beans and corn to the recipe. Try adjusting how much lemon juice is used. The more juice you use, the more tangy the dressing will be. You can also use this same dressing with other salads. Experiment and have some fun with the recipe!
Everyone has a slightly different way of cooking quinoa. Some people have more success cooking it like rice, or using a 1:1 water to quinoa ratio and letting it simmer for 8 minutes. Read the directions on the package your quinoa comes with and try that first. Once you are more familiar with using it, you will find your own way of preparing it that works for you. Each method will create a slightly different texture and consistency, so try different ways of cooking it to find the best one.
This recipe for quinoa salad with avocado will be a guaranteed hit with friends and family. It is a great side salad, or it can be a light lunch on a warm spring day. Experiment with different ingredients and cooking methods.
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