Corn Avocado and Quinoa Salad is a vibrant and nutritious dish that caters to health-conscious eaters and those seeking a delightful, refreshing meal. This salad is perfect for summer picnics, potlucks, or simply as a satisfying lunch. Its combination of flavors and textures—from sweet corn to creamy avocado—makes it a favorite for both vegetarians and meat-lovers alike. Trivia question: What are the main ingredients in Corn, Avocado, and Quinoa Salad? The answer is: corn, avocado, quinoa, and marinated tomatoes!
| Yields | Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Calories per Serving |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 servings | 15 minutes | 15 minutes | 30 minutes | 220 calories |
Ingredients for Corn Avocado and Quinoa Salad
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup corn, fresh or frozen
- 1 large avocado, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 2 limes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions for Preparation
Step 1: Start by cooking the quinoa. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until the quinoa is fluffy and the water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
Step 2: While the quinoa is cooking, prepare the marinated tomatoes. In a small bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, olive oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Stir well to ensure all the tomatoes are coated. Allow them to marinate for at least 10 minutes to enhance the flavors.
Step 3: Once the quinoa has cooled, fluff it with a fork and transfer it to a large mixing bowl. Add the corn, diced avocado, chopped red onion, and cilantro. Gently mix to combine all the ingredients without mashing the avocado.
Step 4: After the tomatoes have marinated, add them along with the marinade to the quinoa salad. Drizzle a bit more lime juice and olive oil if desired, then season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Toss everything together gently.
Step 5: Serve the salad immediately for the freshest taste, or refrigerate it for about 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. This salad is best enjoyed chilled.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 |
| Protein | 6g |
| Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Fiber | 7g |
| Sugars | 2g |
| Fat | 8g |
Tips and Variations
- For extra protein, consider adding black beans or chickpeas to the salad.
- Feel free to swap the cilantro for parsley or omit it if you’re not a fan of the taste.
- To make this salad even more colorful, consider adding diced red bell pepper or shredded carrots.
- If you want to prepare this salad in advance, keep the avocado separate until just before serving to prevent browning.
- This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or shrimp for those looking for a protein boost.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Medium saucepan
- Mixing bowl
- Small bowl for marinating tomatoes
- Fork for fluffing quinoa
- Knife and cutting board for chopping
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, but the avocado may brown slightly. To minimize browning, drizzle a bit of lime juice over the avocado before storing.
Food and Drink Pairings
This Corn Avocado and Quinoa Salad is a versatile dish that can be served as a side or a main course. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, fish, or as a filling in wraps. For drinks, a crisp white wine or a refreshing iced tea complements the salad’s vibrant flavors.
We hope you enjoy making and sharing this delightful salad! Don’t forget to share this recipe and subscribe to our blog for more delicious and healthy recipes!
Q: Why should avocado not be added to a salad until immediately before serving?
A: Avocado tends to brown quickly when exposed to air, which can detract from the salad’s appearance and flavor. Adding it just before serving helps maintain its vibrant color and creamy texture.
Q: Why is quinoa salad healthy?
A: Quinoa salad is healthy due to its high protein content, fiber, and essential amino acids. It provides a nutritious base enriched with fresh vegetables, making it a balanced option for meals.
Q: Is quinoa salad good for cholesterol?
A: Yes, quinoa salad can be beneficial for cholesterol levels. Quinoa is high in fiber, which helps to lower bad cholesterol (LDL) levels and promote heart health.
Q: How many calories in Mendocino Farms avocado quinoa salad?
A: Mendocino Farms’ avocado quinoa salad typically contains around 350 calories per serving, depending on additional ingredients and portion sizes.
