Description
This Citrus Quinoa Salad is a vibrant, nutrient-packed dish combining fluffy quinoa, juicy oranges, creamy avocado, and crunchy vegetables, all tossed in a zesty citrus vinaigrette. Perfect as a light lunch, hearty side, or meal prep staple, this gluten-free salad is as flavorful as it is wholesome.
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups cooked quinoa
- 1 cup chopped baby spinach
- 1 1/2 cups chopped or shredded chicken breast
- 1/3 cup finely diced red onion
- 1 cup chopped bell pepper (any color)
- 1 (15 oz) can garbanzo beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 navel oranges, peeled, segmented, and chopped
- 2 avocados, cubed
- 2 tbsp lime juice (about 1 lime)
- 1 tsp lime zest (about 1 lime)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- 1/3 cup orange juice (about 2-3 oranges)
- 1 tbsp orange zest (about 1 orange)
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1/3 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 tbsp honey (or maple syrup for vegan)
- 3/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine warm cooked quinoa and chopped spinach. Stir gently to slightly wilt the spinach.
- Add red onion, bell pepper, garbanzo beans, oranges, and chicken (if using). Mix well to combine.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together lime juice, lime zest, lemon juice, orange juice, orange zest, olive oil, cilantro, honey, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to make the citrus vinaigrette.
- Pour the vinaigrette over the salad mixture and toss to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Gently fold in the cubed avocado right before serving to maintain its texture and prevent browning.
- Serve at room temperature or chilled. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Notes
- Add avocado just before serving to avoid browning.
- Use warm quinoa to better absorb the vinaigrette and slightly wilt spinach.
- Substitute chicken with tofu, shrimp, or omit for a vegetarian version.
- Make vinaigrette up to 1 week ahead and store refrigerated.
- For meal prep, store dressing separately until ready to serve.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American