Name: Quinoa Stuffed Avocado
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1/2 cup rainbow quinoa; 1 cup water; 2 large California Avocados (halved, pits and peel removed); 3 cups romaine lettuce (chopped); 2 tbsp Sriracha Mayo; 2 tbsp Creamy Balsamic Vinaigrette; 1/2 red bell pepper (diced); salt; pepper

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When I first stumbled upon the idea of Quinoa Stuffed Avocado, I was intrigued by the harmony of flavors and textures that a simple avocado could hold. Standing in my kitchen, I was searching for something healthy yet satisfying, and I had a feeling this dish would fit the bill perfectly. The nutty flavor of quinoa paired with the creamy, rich texture of the avocado promised a delightful experience. As I began to prepare this dish, I could already envision it becoming a new favorite for both lunch and dinner.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
40 mins

Prep Time:
20 mins

Cook Time:
20 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
250 kcal

Protein:
7 g

Diet:
Vegan, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
10 g

Tools Used:
Saucepan, Large Pot, Chef’s Knife, Peeler, Frying Pan, Cutting Board

The Appeal of This Quinoa Stuffed Avocado

It’s Nutritious

The Quinoa Stuffed Avocado is not just tasty; it’s also packed with nutrients! Quinoa is a complete protein, containing all nine essential amino acids, which is great for both vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. Paired with heart-healthy fats from the avocado, this dish offers a perfect balance of protein, healthy fats, and fiber.

Perfect for Meal Prep

I love how easy it is to prepare these stuffed avocados ahead of time. You can cook a large batch of quinoa and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready for a meal, just scoop it into fresh avocados, and you have a quick, healthy lunch or dinner.

A Canvas for Your Creativity

One of the best things about the Quinoa Stuffed Avocado is how versatile it is. You can customize the filling to your taste with different dressings or veggies. Want to add some chickpeas or corn? Go for it! The possibilities are endless.

Visually Stunning

Let’s face it, food that looks good is more enjoyable to eat. The vibrant green of the avocado contrasts beautifully with the colorful quinoa mixture. When I serve this dish, my friends and family are always impressed by its appearance, making it a great option for entertaining.

Great Flavor Combinations

The creamy texture of avocado complemented by the crunchy bits of bell pepper and the kick from Sriracha Mayo creates a flavor explosion that keeps you coming back for more. It’s a delightful medley that excites the palate.

Healthy Comfort Food

Lastly, let’s talk about how satisfying this dish is. The Quinoa Stuffed Avocado fills you up without weighing you down. It’s comforting, yet you can feel good about what you’re eating.

What to Buy for Quinoa Stuffed Avocado

Choosing the right ingredients is crucial for making the best Quinoa Stuffed Avocado. Each component plays a vital role in ensuring that the flavors and textures work in harmony. The star of this dish is undoubtedly the quinoa, a nutritious grain paired with the creamy richness of avocado. Together, they create a delightful foundation that you can build upon with various toppings and dressings.

1/2 cup rainbow quinoa: This beautiful grain not only adds nutrition but also a pop of color to your dish.
1 cup water: Essential for cooking the quinoa to the perfect fluffy texture.
2 large California avocados: The base of the dish, perfect for stuffing and adding creaminess.
3 cups romaine lettuce: Adds a nice crunch, serving as a bed for the avocados.
2 tbsp Sriracha Mayo: Brings a spicy kick that elevates the flavor profile.
2 tbsp Creamy Balsamic Vinaigrette: A tangy dressing that adds depth to the stuffing.
1/2 red bell pepper: Adds sweetness and crunch, making the dish even more delightful.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning to taste.

Step by Step Instructions for Quinoa Stuffed Avocado

Making Quinoa Stuffed Avocado is a straightforward process that allows you to enjoy a healthy meal in no time. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be rewarded with a delicious dish. Let’s dive in!

Start by rinsing the quinoa under cold water to remove its natural bitter coating. Drain well.
In a small saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa with 1 cup of water. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat.
Once boiling, lower the heat to a simmer, cover the saucepan, and let it cook for about 20 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed and the quinoa is fluffy.
After cooking, fluff the quinoa with a fork and set it aside to cool slightly.
While the quinoa is cooling, prepare the California avocados. Halve them and carefully remove the pits and skin.
On two plates, arrange a bed of chopped romaine lettuce to add freshness and crunch.
Once the quinoa has cooled, generously fill each avocado half with the quinoa mixture. You can serve it warm or chilled, depending on your preference.
Drizzle the top of each stuffed avocado with Sriracha Mayo and Creamy Balsamic Vinaigrette for an extra layer of flavor.
Lastly, sprinkle diced red bell pepper on top and season with salt and pepper to taste. Enjoy your meal!

Things Worth Knowing

Storage: Store any leftover quinoa in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Serving Temperature: This dish can be enjoyed warm or cold, making it great for meal prep.
Avocado Ripeness: Ensure your avocados are ripe but firm for easy handling.
Quinoa Cooking Tips: If your quinoa isn’t fluffy enough, it may need a bit more time to cook or more water.

Change It Up

If you’re looking to customize your Quinoa Stuffed Avocado, here are some great ideas to explore!

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, keeping the avocados separate to avoid browning.
Freezing: It’s best not to freeze the stuffed avocados, but you can freeze the quinoa mixture for up to a month!
Pairing: Serve alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
Toppings: Add toppings like black beans, corn, or diced tomatoes for extra flavor.
Seasoning Variations: Try adding spices like cumin or chili powder to the quinoa for a different twist.
Avocado Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of avocados, consider using large tomatoes or even bell peppers!

What to Pair With Quinoa Stuffed Avocado

Serving your Quinoa Stuffed Avocado is all about the experience. Here are my top recommendations:

Light Salads: Pair with a crisp garden salad for a refreshing meal.
Soups: A warm bowl of tomato or vegetable soup complements the creamy avocado perfectly.
Grains: Serve alongside a side of brown rice or farro for added heartiness.
Occasions: This dish is fantastic for lunch, dinner, or even as a light appetizer for gatherings.
Seasonal Pairings: In spring and summer, fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley work wonderfully as garnishes.
Drinks: Pair with a refreshing iced tea or flavored sparkling water to complete the meal.

FAQ

Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of quinoa, you can substitute it with other grains like brown rice, farro, or even couscous. Each grain will provide its unique texture and flavor, so feel free to experiment. Just be sure to adjust the cooking times according to the grain you choose, as each grain absorbs water differently.

To determine if your avocados are ripe, gently squeeze the fruit in the palm of your hand. It should yield slightly to pressure but not feel overly soft. If it’s hard, it’s not ripe yet, but if it feels very soft, it may be overripe. If you have time, buy them a few days in advance to let them ripen naturally at room temperature.

Yes! The Quinoa Stuffed Avocado is perfect for meal prep. You can prepare the quinoa mixture in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When ready to serve, just fill the avocados right before eating to keep them fresh and prevent browning.

There are so many delicious toppings you can add to your Quinoa Stuffed Avocado. Consider adding black beans for more protein, corn for sweetness, or even diced tomatoes for freshness. You could also sprinkle some feta cheese or fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley on top for an extra flavor boost. The options are endless!

Conclusion

The Quinoa Stuffed Avocado is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that will make your taste buds dance. This dish is not only healthy but also versatile, allowing you to customize it to your liking. I encourage you to give it a try tonight—it’s a quick, satisfying meal that’s sure to impress everyone at your table. Enjoy the flavors and the health benefits that come with every bite!