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Easy Quinoa Salad Recipe

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4.1 from 3 reviews

This Easy Quinoa Salad is a fresh, vibrant, and wholesome dish perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner. It features cooked quinoa tossed with fresh spinach, crunchy cucumbers, sweet cherry tomatoes, creamy avocado, and green onions, all brought together with a tangy olive oil and lemon dressing. Ready in just 15 minutes, this salad is nutritious, flavorful, and satisfying.

Ingredients

Dressing

  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice (from 1 large lemon)
  • 1 tablespoon vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon pure maple syrup (can substitute honey)
  • Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste

Salad

  • 2 cups cooked quinoa
  • 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, chopped
  • 1 cup chopped cucumber
  • 1 cup grape or cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 large avocado, pitted, peeled, and chopped
  • 2 green onions, sliced
  • Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, vinegar, maple syrup (or honey), and a pinch of kosher salt and black pepper. Mix well to combine all the flavors and set aside to allow the dressing to meld.
  2. Assemble the salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, chopped spinach, cucumber, halved grape or cherry tomatoes, chopped avocado, and sliced green onions. Toss gently to evenly distribute the ingredients.
  3. Toss with dressing and season: Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients. Gently stir until the salad is fully coated with the dressing. Taste and adjust seasoning by adding more kosher salt and black pepper as needed. Serve immediately for the freshest taste.

Notes

  • Use freshly cooked and cooled quinoa for best texture and freshness.
  • Maple syrup can be substituted with honey or agave nectar for sweetness.
  • If you prefer a vegan option, ensure to use maple syrup instead of honey.
  • This salad is best served fresh but can be refrigerated up to 24 hours in an airtight container.
  • Add toasted nuts or seeds for extra crunch and protein.
  • Feel free to customize with your favorite fresh veggies.

Find it online: https://yumntasty.com/easy-quinoa-salad-recipe/