Vibrant salad with strawberries, avocado, quinoa, tossed in a zesty citrus dressing for a refreshing meal.
# Required Ingredients:
→ 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
10 - 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
→ 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
# How-To Steps:
01 - Rinse quinoa thoroughly using a fine mesh strainer under cold running water.
02 - Combine quinoa, water, and salt in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then lower the heat, cover, and simmer for 12–15 minutes until water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let stand covered for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and allow to cool.
03 - In a small bowl or jar, whisk olive oil, lemon juice, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and freshly ground black pepper until well blended.
04 - Place cooled quinoa, strawberries, avocado, spinach or mixed greens, red onion, basil, and toasted almonds or pecans into a large mixing bowl.
05 - Drizzle prepared dressing over the salad ingredients and gently toss until evenly coated.
06 - Top salad with crumbled feta cheese, if desired. Serve immediately.
