Quinoa Salad with Asparagus, Peas, Avocados & Lemon Basil Dressing

By SMorrissey

Ingredients

• For the Dressing:
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon honey or agave nectar
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh basil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• For the salad:
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup quinoa
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 small bunch asparagus, about 15 spears, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 avocado, chopped
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup chopped basil

Details

Servings 4
Preparation time 5mins
Cooking time 35mins
Adapted from twopeasandtheirpod.com

Preparation

Step 1

1. In a small bowl or medium jar, combine the dressing ingredients. Whisk to combine or shake with the jar lid on tight. Set aside.

2. Add water, quinoa, and salt to a medium saucepan and bring to a boil over medium heat. Boil for 5 minutes. Turn the heat to low and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until water is absorbed. Remove from heat and fluff with a fork.

3. While the quinoa is cooking, cook the asparagus. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the asparagus and fresh lemon juice. Cook until tender, about 5 minutes. Stir in the peas and cook for an additional 2 minutes.

4. In a large bowl, combine quinoa, asparagus, peas, and avocado. Pour the dressing over the salad and stir until well coated. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Stir in the fresh basil and serve.