Avocado Quinoa Power Salad

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A nutrient-packed, refreshing, and satisfying salad loaded with plant-based protein, healthy fats, and vibrant flavors!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups water or vegetable broth
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 avocado, diced
• ½ cucumber, diced
• ¼ red onion, thinly sliced
• ½ cup canned chickpeas or black beans, drained and rinsed
• ¼ cup fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
• ¼ cup almonds, walnuts, or pumpkin seeds (for crunch)

For the Dressing:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice or lime juice
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp maple syrup or agave (optional for balance)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Quinoa: In a pot, bring quinoa and water (or broth) to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 12-15 minutes until fluffy. Let cool.
2. Prep the Veggies: Dice the avocado, cucumber, tomatoes, and onion.
3. Make the Dressing: Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and maple syrup.
4. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, toss the cooled quinoa with the chopped veggies, chickpeas, and herbs.
5. Dress & Serve: Drizzle the dressing over the salad, toss gently, and top with nuts or seeds. Serve immediately or chill for a refreshing meal.

Optional Add-ins:

✔️ Add arugula or spinach for extra greens.
✔️ Sprinkle hemp seeds or nutritional yeast for a protein boost.
✔️ Swap chickpeas for edamame or tofu for variety.

Would you like a creamy avocado dressing version? 😊