Easy Quinoa Spinach Avocado Power Salad Recipe

Fresh, vibrant, and absolutely irresistible, this Easy Quinoa Spinach Avocado Power Salad is the ultimate quick and nourishing meal you need in your weekly rotation. Packed with hearty quinoa, creamy avocado, crisp veggies, and a zesty dressing, it comes together in no time — perfect for busy weeknights or a light yet satisfying lunch. Every bite bursts with flavor and texture, making healthy eating feel like a total indulgence!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Quick: This salad can be prepped and ready in under 25 minutes — yes, even if you’re moving slowly after a long day!
• Nutrient-Packed: Loaded with protein from quinoa, healthy fats from avocado, and a rainbow of veggies, it’s a true powerhouse meal.
• Incredibly Flavorful: Between the fluffy quinoa, the buttery avocado, and a bright, tangy dressing, every forkful is vibrant and delicious.
• Flexible and Forgiving: Whether you’re cleaning out the fridge or craving something fresh, this salad welcomes all your favorite mix-ins.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gather these simple ingredients, and you’ll be moments away from a crave-worthy salad:

• Quinoa: The hearty, protein-rich base that makes this salad extra satisfying.
• Fresh Spinach: Tender greens that add freshness and a boost of vitamins.
• Avocado: Perfectly ripe avocado lends creaminess and healthy fats — a must!
• Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet, juicy pops of flavor in every bite.
• Cucumber: Crisp and refreshing for balance.
• Red Onion: Thinly sliced for a little sharpness and crunch.
• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed for a tangy, lively dressing.
• Olive Oil: Smooth and rich, it ties the dressing together beautifully.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the vibrant flavors.
• Optional Extras: Chopped nuts, seeds, crumbled feta, or fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley — you can truly make it your own!

Variations

If you love a little creativity in the kitchen, this salad is your playground:

• Add Protein: Toss in some grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to make it heartier.
• Play with Greens: Swap the spinach for arugula, kale, or mixed baby greens.
• Switch Up the Veggies: Bell peppers, shredded carrots, or roasted sweet potatoes make delicious additions.
• Try a Different Dressing: A tahini lemon dressing or a balsamic vinaigrette would be fantastic here.

How to Make Easy Quinoa Spinach Avocado Power Salad

Step 1: Cook the Quinoa

Start by cooking the quinoa according to the package instructions. Once done, fluff it with a fork and let it cool slightly — warm quinoa will wilt the spinach too much.

Step 2: Prepare the Veggies

While the quinoa cooks, dice the avocado, halve the cherry tomatoes, chop the cucumber, and slice the red onion thinly.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust as needed — you want a nice balance of tangy and rich.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the quinoa, spinach, and all the chopped veggies. Drizzle the dressing over everything and gently toss until well coated.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Top with any extra add-ins like nuts, seeds, or cheese. Serve immediately for the freshest flavor!

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Cool the Quinoa: Give the quinoa a few minutes to cool before mixing to prevent soggy greens.
• Massage the Spinach: If using mature spinach leaves, a light massage with a little olive oil softens them nicely.
• Use Ripe Avocado: A perfectly ripe avocado is key — it should yield slightly to pressure without feeling mushy.
• Prep Ahead: Cook the quinoa and chop the veggies ahead of time. Assemble just before serving to keep everything crisp and fresh.

How to Serve

This salad is a meal on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with:

Grilled Proteins

Serve alongside grilled chicken, salmon, or shrimp for a complete meal.

Soup Companion

Pair with a light vegetable or tomato soup for a cozy, satisfying lunch.

Wrap it Up

Spoon the salad into a large wrap or pita for a grab-and-go meal option.

Party Platter

Serve it as part of a bigger spread with hummus, pita bread, and other Mediterranean-inspired bites.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The avocado may brown slightly, but the flavor will still be great.

Freezing

This salad doesn’t freeze well because of the fresh veggies and avocado. It’s best enjoyed fresh!

Reheating

No reheating needed! Simply enjoy it straight from the fridge, giving it a quick toss if needed to redistribute the dressing.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! You can cook the quinoa and prep the veggies a day ahead. Assemble everything just before serving for the best texture and freshness.

What type of quinoa is best for this salad?

Any quinoa works! White quinoa is fluffiest, while red and black quinoa offer a slightly nuttier flavor and firmer bite — use whichever you prefer.

How can I keep the avocado from browning?

Toss the avocado cubes in a little lemon juice before adding them to the salad. It helps slow down the browning and keeps them looking fresh.

Is this salad good for meal prep?

Absolutely. Just keep the dressing separate and add the avocado right before eating for the freshest, most vibrant meal prep lunches.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Quinoa Spinach Avocado Power Salad is everything a busy cook could hope for — simple, fresh, and ridiculously tasty. Whether you’re powering through a hectic week or just craving something light yet satisfying, this salad has you covered. Give it a try and watch it become a new favorite in your kitchen!

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