Spinach and Quinoa Salad
This magnesium-rich salad is a tasty way to give your body and brain a boost. The health-promoting benefits of spinach and avocado along with some healthy seeds and protein-rich quinoa pair wonderfully with this yummy dressing. Your taste buds will want you to eat healthy.
Servings 1 serving
Calories 505kcal
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup cooked quinoa
- 1/2 cup avocado, diced
- 1 Tbsp sunflower seeds
- 1 Tbsp pumpkin seeds
Lemon Tahini Dressing
- 1 Tbsp tahini
- 1 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 Tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp maple syrup or honey
- 1 small garlic clove, minced
- salt and pepper, to taste
- 1-2 Tbsp water, to desired consistency
Instructions
- Cook the Quinoa:Rinse 1/4 cup of quinoa under cold water.In a small pot, combine the rinsed quinoa with 1/2 cup of water.Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the water is absorbed.Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and let it cool.
- Prepare the Salad:In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped spinach, cooked and cooled quinoa, diced avocado, sunflower seeds, and pumpkin seeds.
- Make the Lemon Tahini Dressing:In a small bowl, whisk together the tahini, fresh lemon juice, olive oil, maple syrup (or honey), minced garlic, salt, and pepper.Gradually add water, one tablespoon at a time, and whisk until you reach your desired dressing consistency.
- Assemble the Salad:Drizzle the lemon tahini dressing over the salad ingredients. Toss gently to combine, ensuring everything is evenly coated with the dressing.Transfer the salad to a serving bowl or plate. Enjoy your nutritious and delicious spinach and quinoa salad with avocado, sunflower, and pumpkin seeds!
- Tips: Feel free to add other fresh vegetables like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition. For added protein, consider including grilled chicken, chickpeas, or feta cheese. The dressing can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week if you want to prepare it in advance.
Notes
Nutrition Information per Serving
Serving size = 1 recipe
- Carbohydrates = 42 grams
- Fiber = 11 grams
- Fat = 35 grams
- Saturated fat = 4.8 grams
- Protein = 11 grams
- Magnesium = 130 mg
- Calcium = 101 mg
- Potassium = 976 mg