Creamy Avocado and Orange Quinoa Salad -- Shape, with a Twist!!!

Creamy Avocado and Orange Quinoa Salad

April 2016 

April 2016 

SmartCooks here. 

This salad can be lunch or dinner. 

Packed with protein and healthy fats -- and vegan or non-vegan depending on your self -- this salad makes the perfect healthy lunch or dinner recipe to try.

Creamy Avocado and Orange Quinoa Salad 

Ingredients

2 T extra-virgin olive oil
1 orange, segmented, plus 2 tablespoons orange juice, divided
1/4 T sea salt
2 1/2 cups cooked quinoa, cooled
2 1/2 cups arugula
1 avocado, cut into 1-inch cubes
2 T crushed hazelnuts, if desired
2 T balsamic vinegar

Directions 

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, orange juice, and sea salt. 

Add quinoa and orange segments, and toss to coat. 

Gently fold in arugula and avocado. Serve topped with crushed hazelnuts, if desired. 

Optional:

I added in some spring onions, low-fat feta, cucumber, lots of herbs like basil, cilantro and mint, chicken cooked in soy and ginger, and some pickled turnips and heirloom grape tomatoes.  I also added a bit of red and yellow peppers.  Olives were also added!   

It was delicious for dinner and I will have the same for lunch tomorrow (portion controlled).

Enjoy!