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Herby Quinoa Salad with Avocado and Chickpeas Recipe

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3.9 from 6 reviews

A refreshing and nutritious herby quinoa salad featuring fresh avocado, chickpeas, and a vibrant herb vinaigrette made with cilantro, basil, and mint. This clean and healthy side dish is perfect for a light meal or as a complement to your favorite main course.

Ingredients

Quinoa

  • 1 cup dry quinoa
  • 2 cups vegetable stock or water
  • ¼ teaspoon kosher salt

Herb Vinaigrette

  • 2 tablespoons loosely packed mint
  • ¼ cup loosely packed basil
  • 2 tablespoons loosely packed cilantro
  • ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh squeezed lime juice
  • 2 teaspoons maple syrup
  • Pinch kosher salt

Salad Ingredients

  • 1 can chickpeas, drained
  • 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes plus more for topping
  • 1 avocado, sliced

Instructions

  1. Cook Quinoa: Place 1 cup quinoa, 2 cups vegetable stock, and ¼ teaspoon kosher salt in a saucepan and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally until all liquid is absorbed.
  2. Prepare Herb Vinaigrette: While quinoa is cooking, combine mint, basil, cilantro, olive oil, lime juice, maple syrup, and a pinch of kosher salt in a tall measuring cup or mini food processor. Blend until herbs are finely pulsed and the mixture is emulsified.
  3. Rest Quinoa: After the liquid is absorbed, remove the saucepan from heat and cover with a lid. Let it rest for 5 minutes, then fluff the quinoa with a fork.
  4. Combine Salad: Transfer the quinoa to a medium bowl. Add 1 cup of chickpeas and the prepared herb vinaigrette. Stir well to combine.
  5. Chill and Add Tomatoes: Refrigerate the quinoa mixture until cooled, then gently fold in the halved cherry tomatoes.
  6. Assemble and Serve: Top the salad with sliced avocado, additional cherry tomato halves, and optional chickpeas. Serve immediately for a fresh, flavorful salad.

Notes

  • Use vegetable stock for added flavor, or water for a lighter taste.
  • The herb vinaigrette can be adjusted in sweetness by varying the maple syrup.
  • Chilling the salad before serving enhances the flavors.
  • Ensure the quinoa is fluffy by letting it rest covered off heat for 5 minutes.
  • Additional herbs can be added or substituted to your preference.

Find it online: https://recipesbyliza.com/herby-quinoa-salad-with-avocado-and-chickpeas-recipe/