Print

Fresh Citrus Avocado Quinoa Salad with Honey Lime Vinaigrette

fresh citrus avocado quinoa salad - featured image
Print Recipe

A light and satisfying salad combining fluffy quinoa, creamy avocado, and bright citrus segments, all tossed in a sweet and tangy honey lime vinaigrette. Perfect for a healthy lunch or refreshing dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (170g) dry quinoa, rinsed
  • 2 ripe avocados, diced
  • 1 large orange, peeled and segmented
  • 1 large grapefruit, peeled and segmented
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
  • 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Rinse 1 cup quinoa under cold water to remove bitterness. Combine with 2 cups water in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cover. Cook for 15 minutes or until water is absorbed.
  2. Remove from heat and let quinoa sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and transfer to a large bowl to cool slightly.
  3. Carefully cut away the peel and white pith from the orange and grapefruit. Slice between membranes to release individual citrus segments, collecting any juice in the bowl.
  4. Cut avocados in half, remove pits, and dice into bite-sized pieces. Toss gently with a squeeze of lime juice to prevent browning if desired.
  5. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Adjust sweetness or acidity to taste.
  6. Add citrus segments, diced avocado, chopped red onion, and cilantro (if using) to the quinoa bowl. Pour the honey lime vinaigrette over the ingredients.
  7. Gently fold the salad ingredients together using a large spoon or spatula, being careful not to mash the avocado. Ensure even coating of the dressing.
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or lime juice if needed. Optionally, add a pinch of chili flakes for subtle heat.
  9. Serve immediately at room temperature or chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to let flavors meld.

Notes

Rinse quinoa well to remove bitterness. Let quinoa steam off heat for fluffiness. Whisk honey and lime juice first to emulsify vinaigrette better. Use ripe but firm avocados to avoid mushiness. Add avocado just before serving to prevent browning. Chilling the salad for 20-30 minutes enhances flavor melding.

Nutrition

Keywords: quinoa salad, avocado salad, citrus salad, honey lime vinaigrette, healthy salad, gluten-free, vegetarian, easy salad recipe

Find it online: https://tempotaste.com/fresh-citrus-avocado-quinoa-salad-recipe-easy-healthy-honey-lime-vinaigrette/