Quinoa-Stuffed Avocado with Chickpea & Herb Salad

Quinoa-Stuffed Avocado with Chickpea & Herb Salad: A Fresh, Nutrient-Packed Meal

Looking for a vibrant, healthy, and delicious plant-based meal? This Quinoa-Stuffed Avocado with Chickpea & Herb Salad is the answer! Perfect for lunch or dinner, this recipe combines creamy avocado halves with a zesty, protein-rich quinoa and chickpea salad, creating a dish that’s as nourishing as it is beautiful.

Quinoa, a complete plant-based protein, forms the base of the salad, while chickpeas add a hearty dose of fiber and protein. Fresh cucumbers, tomatoes, and microgreens provide a burst of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, while parsley and basil lend a fragrant, herbaceous touch. The creamy avocado not only serves as a stunning edible bowl but also delivers heart-healthy fats and essential nutrients.

Topped with a simple lemon and olive oil dressing and a sprinkle of flaky salt, this dish is light yet satisfying, gluten-free, and entirely vegan. Whether you’re a seasoned plant-based eater or just looking to incorporate more wholesome meals into your routine, this recipe is a must-try. It’s quick to prepare, packed with flavor, and perfect for fueling your body with goodness. Enjoy! 🌱

Quinoa-Stuffed Avocado with Chickpea & Herb Salad Ingredients (2 Servings)

For the Quinoa:

• 1/2 cup quinoa

• 1 cup water

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 2 bay leaves

• 1 lemon wheel (a slice of lemon)

For the Salad:

• 1/2 cup cooked chickpeas (canned or freshly cooked)

• 1/2 cucumber, peeled and diced

• 1 medium tomato, diced and seasoned with a pinch of salt

• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

• 5-6 fresh basil leaves, torn

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• Salt and pepper to taste

For Assembly:

• 1 ripe avocado

• 1 cup microgreens

• Extra olive oil for drizzling

• Flaky salt (e.g., Maldon) for garnish

Quinoa-Stuffed Avocado with Chickpea & Herb Salad Instructions

Cook the Quinoa:

1. Rinse the quinoa under cold water to remove any bitterness.

2. In a small pot, combine quinoa, water, salt, bay leaves, and the lemon wheel. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the quinoa is cooked and water is absorbed.

3. Remove from heat, discard the bay leaves and lemon wheel, and let the quinoa cool completely.

Prepare the Salad:

1. In a large bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, chickpeas, diced cucumber, seasoned tomatoes, parsley, and basil leaves.

2. Drizzle with lemon juice and olive oil, then season with salt and pepper. Toss gently to combine.

Assemble the Dish:

1. Cut the avocado in half, remove the pit, and carefully peel off the skin.

2. Place a handful of microgreens in a circle on each shallow bowl.

3. Place an avocado half in the center of each bowl.

4. Fill the avocado cavity generously with the quinoa salad mixture.

5. Spoon the remaining quinoa salad around the microgreens.

6. Drizzle a little olive oil over the top and sprinkle with flaky salt.

Serve immediately and enjoy this vibrant, healthy dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious! 🌱

The Health and Wellness Benefits of Quinoa-Stuffed Avocado with Chickpea & Herb Salad

This Quinoa-Stuffed Avocado with Chickpea & Herb Salad is a celebration of plant-based nutrition, offering a perfect balance of flavor, texture, and wellness-boosting ingredients. Packed with wholesome, nutrient-dense foods, this recipe is designed to nourish your body, support your health goals, and leave you feeling energized and satisfied. Let’s explore the health benefits of each component of this vibrant dish.

1. Quinoa: A Complete Plant-Based Protein

Quinoa is the star of this recipe, providing a complete source of plant-based protein. Unlike most plant proteins, quinoa contains all nine essential amino acids, making it an excellent choice for muscle repair, immune function, and overall cellular health. It’s also rich in fiber, which supports digestive health, promotes satiety, and helps regulate blood sugar levels. Quinoa is packed with essential minerals like magnesium, iron, and manganese, which play key roles in energy production, bone health, and antioxidant defense.

2. Chickpeas: A Fiber and Protein Powerhouse

Chickpeas add a hearty texture and a boost of plant-based protein and fiber to this dish. They are an excellent source of soluble fiber, which supports gut health, reduces cholesterol levels, and stabilizes blood sugar. Chickpeas also provide iron, folate, and phosphorus, which are essential for energy metabolism, red blood cell production, and bone health. Their low glycemic index makes them a great choice for maintaining steady energy levels throughout the day.

3. Avocado: Heart-Healthy Fats

The creamy avocado halves in this recipe are a rich source of monounsaturated fats, particularly oleic acid, which supports heart health by reducing inflammation and improving cholesterol levels. Avocados are also packed with potassium, a mineral that helps regulate blood pressure and maintain proper muscle and nerve function. Additionally, they provide vitamin E, an antioxidant that protects cells from oxidative damage, and vitamin K, which supports bone health.

4. Fresh Vegetables: A Nutrient Boost

The diced cucumber and tomatoes in this salad add a refreshing crunch and a wealth of vitamins and minerals:

• Cucumber: Hydrating and low in calories, cucumbers are rich in vitamin K and antioxidants that support skin health and reduce inflammation.

• Tomatoes: Bursting with lycopene, a powerful antioxidant, tomatoes help protect against chronic diseases, support heart health, and promote glowing skin.

5. Microgreens: A Concentrated Source of Nutrients

Microgreens are young vegetable greens that pack a powerful nutritional punch. Despite their small size, they are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Studies have shown that microgreens can contain up to 40 times more nutrients than their mature counterparts, making them an excellent addition to any meal for boosting immunity and overall health.

6. Fresh Herbs: Flavor with Benefits

Parsley and basil not only add vibrant flavor but also come with their own health perks:

• Parsley: Rich in vitamin K, vitamin C, and antioxidants, parsley supports bone health, boosts immunity, and has anti-inflammatory properties.

• Basil: Known for its essential oils, basil has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects. It’s also a good source of vitamin A, magnesium, and iron.

7. Lemon Juice and Olive Oil: A Healthy Dressing

The combination of lemon juice and olive oil creates a light, zesty dressing that enhances the flavors of the dish while providing additional health benefits. Lemon juice is rich in vitamin C, which supports immune function and enhances iron absorption from plant-based foods. Olive oil, a cornerstone of the Mediterranean diet, is packed with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants that reduce inflammation and support brain health.

8. A Balanced, Wholesome Meal

This recipe is a perfect example of a balanced, plant-based meal. It combines complex carbohydrates (quinoa), healthy fats (avocado and olive oil), plant-based protein (quinoa and chickpeas), and a variety of vitamins and minerals from the vegetables and herbs. It’s low in processed ingredients, free from animal products, and rich in fiber, making it a heart-healthy, cholesterol-free option that aligns with a sustainable and compassionate lifestyle.

Conclusion

This Quinoa-Stuffed Avocado with Chickpea & Herb Salad is more than just a meal—it’s a nourishing experience that supports your health and wellness from the inside out. By incorporating nutrient-dense, plant-based ingredients, this dish promotes physical health, mental clarity, and emotional well-being. Whether you’re looking to improve your diet, boost your energy, or simply enjoy a delicious and wholesome meal, this recipe is a fantastic choice for nourishing your body and soul. 🌱