Summer Quinoa Salad Corn (Print Version)

Vibrant quinoa, avocado, corn, and citrus create a refreshing, light salad perfect for warm weather meals.

# Ingredients:

→ Grains

01 - 200 g quinoa, rinsed
02 - 480 ml water

→ Vegetables & Fruit

03 - 1 ripe avocado, diced
04 - 150 g cherry tomatoes, halved
05 - 170 g cooked corn kernels
06 - 40 g red onion, finely diced
07 - 15 g fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped

→ Citrus Vinaigrette

08 - 60 ml extra-virgin olive oil
09 - 45 ml freshly squeezed lime juice
10 - 15 ml freshly squeezed orange juice
11 - 5 ml honey or maple syrup
12 - 1 clove garlic, finely minced
13 - 2 g ground cumin
14 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

# Steps:

01 - Combine rinsed quinoa with water in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until the quinoa is tender and all water is absorbed. Remove from heat, fluff with a fork, and set aside to cool completely.
02 - Using a small bowl or jar, whisk together extra-virgin olive oil, lime juice, orange juice, honey or maple syrup, minced garlic, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper until the dressing is emulsified.
03 - In a large salad bowl, mix the cooled quinoa with diced avocado, halved cherry tomatoes, corn kernels, finely diced red onion, and chopped fresh herbs.
04 - Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to coat, keeping the avocado in chunks.
05 - Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or lime juice as desired. Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow flavors to develop.

# Notes:

01 - Add black beans or grilled chicken for additional protein if desired.
02 - Substitute cilantro with parsley based on personal preference.
03 - Top with feta cheese for extra tang, keeping in mind dietary restrictions.
04 - This salad is best enjoyed fresh due to the avocado.