Green quinoa salad with creamy avocado dressing

This Green Goddess Quinoa Salad is a light, refreshing, and nutrient-packed dish that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep. With a combination of fresh greens, protein-rich quinoa, and a creamy herb-packed dressing, this salad is both satisfying and delicious. It’s naturally gluten-free and can be made vegan by swapping the yogurt in the dressing.

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Servings: 2

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Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 100g quinoa, rinsed

• baby spinach, chopped

• 1/2 cup cucumber, diced

• 1 avocado, diced

• 50g peas

• fresh parsley, chopped

• 50g chickpeas

• toasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds

For the Green Goddess Dressing:

• 100g Greek yogurt

• extra virgin olive oil

• 1/2 lemon juice

• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

• fresh cilantro or more parsley

• fresh chives

• 1/2 avocado

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• Water, to thin if needed

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Recipe

1. Cook the Quinoa:

   • In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the quinoa, reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until the water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and let it cool.

2. Make the Dressing:

   • In a blender or food processor, combine all the dressing ingredients. Blend until smooth and creamy. Add water a little at a time if you prefer a thinner consistency. Adjust seasoning as needed.

3. Assemble the Salad:

   • In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, spinach, chickpeas, cucumber, avocado, peas and parsley.

4. Dress & Serve:

   • Drizzle the Green Goddess dressing over the salad and toss well to combine. Sprinkle with toasted pumpkin or sunflower seeds for a crunchy finish.

5. Enjoy!

   • Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 days for a refreshing meal prep option.