Lemon Herb Quinoa with Avocado Bliss

A refreshing, zesty bowl of lemony quinoa paired with ripe avocado and sweet cherry tomatoes, finished with fresh basil for a perfect light meal.

⏱️ Cooking Time: 20 minutes | 🍽️ Servings: 1

Instructions

1. 1.
   Begin by preparing your quinoa. Rinse 1 cup of dry quinoa under cold water to remove any residual saponin, which can make it taste bitter. Cook according to package instructions, usually about 15 minutes, until the quinoa is fluffy and all water is absorbed. Allow it to cool slightly before using.
2. 2.
   Meanwhile, prepare the avocado. Cut it in half and remove the pit carefully by striking it with a knife and twisting. Scoop out half the avocado and dice it into small pieces. If the avocado feels too hard, allow it to ripen a little longer until it yields slightly to gentle pressure.
3. 3.
   Halve the cherry tomatoes. It's essential to use a sharp knife to prevent mashing the tomatoes, extracting too many juices, which could dilute the flavor. Use fresh, ripe tomatoes for the best sweetness and tang.
4. 4.
   In a medium bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, diced avocado, and halved cherry tomatoes. Drizzle the lemon juice over the mixture. The lemon juice adds brightness and also prevents the avocado from browning, keeping your dish fresh and vibrant.
5. 5.
   Chop the fresh basil just before using to prevent it from wilting or browning prematurely. Sprinkle over the bowl and gently toss all the ingredients together. The basil adds a fragrant aroma and complements the tangy lemon and creamy avocado perfectly. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed by adding a pinch of salt or more lemon juice for extra zest.