Pin This A vibrant, refreshing bowl packed with zesty citrus, creamy avocado, and protein-rich quinoa—perfect for a light lunch or a nourishing side.
This bowl quickly became a favorite in my home for its perfect balance of tangy citrus and creamy avocado.
Ingredients
- Quinoa Base: 1 cup quinoa, rinsed, 2 cups water, ½ teaspoon sea salt
- Citrus & Avocado: 1 large orange peeled and segmented, 1 large grapefruit peeled and segmented, 1 ripe avocado diced, ½ small red onion finely sliced, ½ cup pomegranate seeds
- Fresh Greens & Herbs: 2 cups baby spinach or arugula, ¼ cup fresh cilantro chopped, ¼ cup fresh mint chopped
- Dressing: 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice, 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, ¼ teaspoon sea salt
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a saucepan, combine quinoa, water, and salt. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and let cool slightly.
- Step 2:
- While quinoa is cooking, prepare the citrus: peel and segment the orange and grapefruit, removing any seeds and membrane.
- Step 3:
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey (or maple syrup), Dijon mustard, black pepper, and salt to make the dressing.
- Step 4:
- In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, spinach (or arugula), red onion, cilantro, and mint. Drizzle with half the dressing and toss gently.
- Step 5:
- Add citrus segments, diced avocado, and pomegranate seeds. Gently toss again, adding more dressing as needed.
- Step 6:
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra herbs if desired.
Pin This My family always gathers around this bowl, sharing stories while savoring each bite.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or sparkling water with lime for a refreshing meal.
Variations
For added protein, top with grilled shrimp, chicken, or chickpeas. Swap grapefruit for blood orange, or add sliced radishes for extra crunch.
Storage
Best enjoyed fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 2 days. Add avocado just before serving to prevent browning.
Pin This
This bowl is a perfect blend of fresh ingredients and easy preparation for a nutritious meal.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I perfectly cook quinoa for this dish?
Rinse quinoa thoroughly, then simmer it with water and a pinch of salt for 15 minutes until water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and allow it to cool slightly before mixing.
- → Can I substitute other citrus fruits in this bowl?
Yes, blood oranges or tangerines work well as alternatives, providing a different but complementary tangy sweetness.
- → What fresh herbs work best with the citrus and avocado flavors?
Cilantro and mint are ideal choices here, offering bright and fresh notes that enhance the overall taste experience.
- → How can I add more protein to this dish?
Consider topping with grilled shrimp, chicken, or a handful of chickpeas to boost the protein content.
- → What dressings pair well with this combination?
A zesty dressing combining olive oil, lemon juice, honey, and Dijon mustard perfectly balances the fresh and creamy elements of the bowl.