Fresh quinoa, strawberries, avocado, spinach, and citrus dressing combine for a vibrant and satisfying dish.
# What you'll need:
→ Grains
01 - 1 cup quinoa, uncooked
02 - 2 cups water
03 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
→ Fruits & Vegetables
04 - 1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced
05 - 1 large avocado, diced
06 - 1 cup baby spinach or mixed greens
07 - 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced
08 - 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
→ Nuts & Seeds
09 - 1/4 cup sliced almonds or pecans, toasted
→ Cheese (optional)
10 - 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
→ Dressing
11 - 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
12 - 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
13 - 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
14 - 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
15 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
# Method:
01 - Thoroughly rinse quinoa using cold water and a fine mesh strainer to remove bitterness.
02 - Combine quinoa, water, and salt in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to low, cover, and simmer for 12–15 minutes. Once water is absorbed, remove from heat, let sit covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork and allow to cool.
03 - In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and freshly ground black pepper until emulsified.
04 - In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled quinoa, sliced strawberries, diced avocado, baby spinach, thinly sliced red onion, fresh basil, and toasted almonds or pecans.
05 - Drizzle prepared dressing over the salad mixture and gently toss to combine for even coating.
06 - Top with crumbled feta cheese if using. Serve immediately as a refreshing light meal or colorful side.
