Description
Discover the vibrant flavors of the High-Protein Mediterranean Quinoa Salad (Fresh & Filling), a refreshing dish that combines creamy avocado and sweet mango with nutrient-rich quinoa, black beans, and chickpeas. This salad is perfect for a nutritious lunch or as a colorful side at gatherings. Within just 30 minutes, you can create a satisfying meal that is both delicious and packed with plant-based protein. Whether you enjoy it on its own or pair it with grilled chicken, this versatile salad will keep you feeling full and energized throughout the day.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1 ripe mango, peeled and diced
- 1/2 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1/2 cup chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 1/2 red bell pepper, finely diced
- 1/4 red onion, finely diced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon cumin (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse quinoa under cold water using a fine-mesh sieve to remove bitterness.
- Cook rinsed quinoa in a medium saucepan with water or vegetable broth; bring to boil, then simmer covered for 15 minutes.
- Allow quinoa to stand for an additional 5-10 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
- While cooling, prepare fresh ingredients: dice avocado and mango, finely chop red bell pepper and onion, rinse black beans and chickpeas.
- Whisk together lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, and optional seasonings in a small bowl for dressing.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled quinoa with prepared vegetables and dressing; gently toss without mashing avocado.
- Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for later enjoyment.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 0mg