Summer Quinoa Salad

Quinoa Salad with Asparagus, Peas, Avocado & Lemon Basil Dressing

Peep that! I mean….check that out, does that not look good or what?! Cccccccmon, say it loud and proud, I LOVE QUINOA, YUM!!
[more…]

It’s summertime lovin’ for sure, especially with asparagus, peas, and avocado so lets go bikini body!! This is my new favorite salad, not only are the nutritional values of quinoa off the charts  but it’s gluten free, vegetarian, and vegan, if you use agave nectar instead of honey in the dressing. This salad is great as a main dish or served as a side. It is also great served warm or chilled. Healthy Eating is where it is at, and I know you will love it too!

Serves: 4-6

Prep time: 5 min

Cook time: 30 min

Total time: 35 min

Ingredients:

1.For the Dressing:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon honey or agave nectar
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh basil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

2. For the Salad:

• 2 cups water
  
• 1 cup quinoa
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 small bunch asparagus, about 15 spears, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 avocado, chopped
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup chopped basil

Directions:

1. In a small bowl or medium jar, combine the dressing ingredients. Whisk to combine or shake with the jar lid on tight. Set aside.
   
2. Add water, quinoa, and salt to a medium saucepan and bring to a boil over medium heat. Boil for 5 minutes. Turn the heat to low and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until water is absorbed. Remove from heat and fluff with a fork.
3. While the quinoa is cooking, cook the asparagus. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the asparagus and fresh lemon juice. Cook until tender, about 5 minutes. Stir in the peas and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
4. In a large bowl, combine quinoa, asparagus, peas, and avocado. Pour the dressing over the salad and stir until well coated. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Stir in the fresh basil and serve.

ENJOY! This is totally Spring/Summer….on your fork….in your mouth!!

Thank you Two Peas & Their Pod for the recipe; Quinoa Salad with Asparagus, Peas, Avocado & Lemon Basil Dressing!

You don’t have to sacrifice taste to eat healthy, and once you eat healthy you can’t help but stay healthy, make smart choices because that’s just sexy!

Smart is Sexy!

Xoxoo Beijo!

SMS