Healthy quinoa salad with avocado and chickpeas in a bowl

Healthy Quinoa Salad with Avocado and Chickpeas

Introduction:

This Healthy Quinoa Salad with Avocado and Chickpeas is a refreshing and nutritious meal packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats. Perfect for lunch or dinner, it’s vegan, gluten-free, and can be meal-prepped for the week.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup quinoa (rinsed)
  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 ripe avocado, diced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Optional: Crumbled feta or goat cheese (for a non-vegan version)

Instructions:

  1. Cook the Quinoa: In a medium pot, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the quinoa, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the quinoa is tender. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
  2. Prepare the Salad: While the quinoa is cooking, prepare the veggies. Dice the avocado, halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, and slice the red onion.
  3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.
  4. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, chickpeas, avocado, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and cilantro. Drizzle with the dressing and toss gently to combine.
  5. Serve: Serve immediately or chill in the fridge for 30 minutes for a cooler, more refreshing salad. Optionally, top with crumbled feta or goat cheese for extra flavor.

Nutrition Information (per serving):

  • Calories: 350
  • Protein: 12g
  • Carbs: 40g
  • Fat: 18g
  • Fiber: 8g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

  • Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes! This quinoa salad is perfect for meal prep. You can make it up to 3 days in advance, just keep the dressing separate until you're ready to serve.

  • What can I substitute for chickpeas? You can replace chickpeas with black beans or any other beans of your choice.

  • Is this recipe suitable for weight loss? Yes, this recipe is high in fiber and protein, which makes it filling and great for weight loss. The healthy fats from avocado also support satiety.