Avocado and Quinoa Salad Stack

Instructions:

1. Cook the Quinoa:

Start by rinsing the quinoa under cold water in a fine mesh strainer to remove any bitter coating (called saponin). Next, cook the quinoa according to package directions. Typically, you’ll use a 2:1 ratio of water to quinoa. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cover. Let it cook for about 15 minutes or until all the water is absorbed and the quinoa is fluffy.

Once cooked, remove the quinoa from the heat and fluff it with a fork. Set it aside to cool slightly while you prepare the other ingredients.

2. Prepare the Salad Ingredients:

While the quinoa is cooling, prep the salad ingredients. Dice the avocados and set them aside in a bowl. Cut the cherry tomatoes in half, dice the cucumber, and finely chop the red onion and cilantro.

If you’re using feta cheese, crumble it into small pieces.

3. Make the Dressing:

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, honey (or maple syrup), Dijon mustard, and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you like a bit more tang, feel free to add an extra splash of lime juice or a pinch of chili flakes for some heat.

4. Assemble the Salad Stack:

Once the quinoa has cooled slightly, it’s time to layer your salad! You can use a ring mold (or any round object like a large cookie cutter or even a mason jar lid) to create the stacked effect, or just stack everything by hand for a more rustic look.

Start with a layer of quinoa at the bottom of your mold or serving plate. Press it down gently to make a solid base.

Next, layer on the diced avocado, followed by a few cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and a sprinkle of cilantro. If you’re using feta, add a layer of crumbled feta cheese as well.

Repeat the layers until you’ve reached the top of your mold or plate, ensuring each layer is evenly stacked. Top with a little more avocado and cilantro for a fresh finishing touch.

5. Drizzle with Dressing:

Once your salad stack is assembled, drizzle the lime dressing generously over the top of the salad. You can either drizzle it over the whole stack or serve it on the side for people to add as they like.

6. Serve and Enjoy:

Carefully remove the ring mold (if you used one) to reveal your perfectly stacked salad. For a fun presentation, garnish with extra cilantro leaves or a light sprinkle of sea salt.

Serve immediately, or refrigerate until ready to serve. This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. If you make it ahead, keep the dressing separate until serving to maintain the salad’s freshness.

Why You’ll Love Avocado and Quinoa Salad Stack:

1. Fresh and Flavorful:
   This salad is a feast for the senses. The creamy avocado and tangy lime dressing pair beautifully with the nutty quinoa and crunchy veggies. Each bite is a perfect balance of flavors, textures, and colors.
2. Healthy and Nutritious:
   Quinoa is a complete protein, making this salad a great source of plant-based protein. The healthy fats from the avocado and olive oil, combined with the fiber from the quinoa and veggies, make this a satisfying and nourishing meal.
3. Customizable:
   You can easily customize this salad to fit your preferences or dietary needs. Try adding some grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein, or toss in other vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or spinach for more variety. You can even swap the feta for goat cheese or omit it entirely for a dairy-free option.
4. Eye-Catching Presentation:
   The stacked presentation of this salad looks impressive and makes it perfect for serving at parties, gatherings, or as a centerpiece for a summer picnic. It’s a great way to elevate a simple salad into something special.
5. Quick and Easy to Make:
   Despite its sophisticated look, this salad is surprisingly easy to prepare. The ingredients are simple, and the process is straightforward. You can even prep the quinoa and veggies ahead of time, making the assembly a breeze when you’re ready to serve.
6. Perfect for Any Occasion:
   This Avocado and Quinoa Salad Stack is versatile enough to be served as a light lunch, a side dish with grilled meats, or a refreshing appetizer. It’s also a great option for meal prepping, as the ingredients hold up well for a couple of days.

Tips for Perfecting Your Avocado and Quinoa Salad Stack:

• Perfectly Ripe Avocados: For the best texture and flavor, make sure your avocados are perfectly ripe—soft but not mushy. You can check by gently pressing on the skin; it should yield to pressure without feeling overly squishy.
• Cool the Quinoa: Let the quinoa cool to room temperature before assembling the salad. This prevents the avocado from getting mushy and ensures that the salad stays fresh and vibrant.
• Use a Mold for Neat Stacking: If you want to create a neat, uniform stack, use a ring mold or a large cookie cutter to shape the layers. You can find inexpensive molds in kitchen stores or online, or you can even use the bottom of a mason jar lid if you’re in a pinch!
• Customize the Dressing: Feel free to adjust the lime dressing to suit your taste. Add a touch of honey for sweetness, a little chili powder for heat, or even a pinch of cumin for a smoky kick. The dressing is key to bringing all the flavors together.
• Top with Protein: For a more filling meal, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even a hard-boiled egg on top. You can also add nuts or seeds for an extra crunch.

Final Thoughts:

The Avocado and Quinoa Salad Stack is the perfect way to enjoy a healthy, fresh, and visually stunning dish that’s full of vibrant flavors. The creamy avocado, protein-packed quinoa, and crunchy vegetables come together in a way that’s both satisfying and delicious.

Whether you’re serving it as a light meal, a side dish, or a show-stopping appetizer, this salad is sure to impress. It’s easy to make, customizable to your tastes, and guaranteed to become a favorite at your next gathering.

So grab your quinoa, avocado, and veggies, and start stacking this flavorful, healthy, and beautiful salad for your next meal!