Vibrant Avocado Quinoa Crunch

A refreshing and nutrient-packed bowl combining creamy avocado, nutty quinoa, and crunchy toasted pumpkin seeds with a citrusy zing of lemon.

⏱️ Cooking Time: 20 minutes | 🍽️ Servings: 1

Instructions

1. 1.
   Start by preparing the quinoa if you haven't already. Rinse 1/4 cup of raw quinoa under cold water to remove any bitterness. Cook it in 1/2 cup of water until the grains are tender and the germ starts to separate from the seed (about 15 minutes). Fluff with a fork and allow it to cool slightly for the best texture.
2. 2.
   While the quinoa is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Dice the avocado into small cubes and halve the cherry tomatoes. This will ensure even distribution of flavors in every bite. If your avocado feels too firm, set it aside for a couple of minutes to soften.
3. 3.
   Toast the pumpkin seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes. Shake the pan frequently to avoid burning and toast them until they are golden and aromatic. Toasting enhances their nutty flavor and adds a delightful crunch to your dish.
4. 4.
   In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, and toasted pumpkin seeds. Drizzle the lemon juice over the mixture. Lemon juice not only adds freshness but also helps prevent the avocado from browning.
5. 5.
   Gently toss all the ingredients together using a spatula to avoid mashing the avocado. Aim for an even mixture where every scoop contains a bit of everything. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the quinoa is too dry, another splash of lemon juice can brighten it up.