Grilled Avocado Halves with Cumin-Spiced Quinoa Salad

Grilled avocados? Yes, what a great way to add another delicious flavor to quinoa salad plus a little elegance! The avocados are on the grill for 5 minutes or less and will add a slight smoky flavor to this dish. So next time you are grilling toss a few on the grill and enjoy!

Grilled Avocado Halves with Cumin-Spiced Quinoa Salad
For the grilled avocados:
3 avocados
1 to 2 Tbsp. olive oil
2 lemons, juiced
Salt and pepper to taste

For the salad:
1 C. dry quinoa
3 Tbsp. olive oil
2 Tbsp. apple cider vinegar
2 tsp. maple syrup
2 tsp. Dijon mustard
1 tsp. ground cumin
1/2 tsp. salt
Black pepper to taste
1 C. diced cucumber
1 C. diced red bell pepper
1/2 C. raw corn kernels (about 1 ear)
1 can black beans, rinsed
10 to 15 basil leaves, cut in chiffonade (thinly sliced)
1/4 C. chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

Place quinoa in a medium size pot with 2 cups of water and a pinch of salt. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce it to a simmer. Cover the quinoa and simmer for 15 minutes, or until all the liquid has been absorbed. Fluff the quinoa with a fork and allow it to rest, covered, for 10 minutes.

While the quinoa cooks, cut the avocados in half and remove the pits. Brush the lightly with olive oil and drizzle with lemon juice. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Place the avocados, cut side down, on the grill. Allow them to cook for 5 minutes, or until they have nice grill marks. Remove them for the heat and set aside.

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, cumin, salt and pepper to taste.

To a large mixing bowl, add the cook quinoa, cucumber, pepper, corn, black beans, basil, and cilantro. Dress the salad and toss gently. Season to taste.

Fill each avocado half til it’s brimming over with the quinoa salad. Serve, and if desired garnish with extra cilantro.

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