A vibrant mix of strawberries, avocado, quinoa, citrus dressing, and greens for a refreshing lunch or side.
# What You 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
10 - 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional, omit for vegan preparation)
→ 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 Make It:
01 - Place quinoa in a fine mesh strainer and rinse thoroughly under cold running water.
02 - Combine the rinsed quinoa, water, and salt in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 12 to 15 minutes until water is fully absorbed. Remove from heat, keep covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork. Allow to cool completely.
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, add cooled quinoa, strawberries, diced avocado, spinach or mixed greens, sliced red onion, chopped basil, and toasted almonds.
05 - Pour the citrus dressing over the ingredients and gently toss until evenly coated.
06 - Top with crumbled feta cheese if using, then serve immediately.
