Mango Avocado Quinoa Salad: The Ultimate Summer Power Bowl

You’ve had salads. You’ve had quinoa. But have you ever had a salad that makes you question why you’ve been eating anything else?

This mango avocado quinoa salad isn’t just food—it’s a flavor explosion disguised as a healthy meal. Perfect for meal prep, picnics, or pretending you’re a gourmet chef, this recipe takes 20 minutes and requires zero fancy skills. If your taste buds aren’t ready, warn them now.

Why This Recipe Slaps

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This salad is the triple threat of deliciousness, nutrition, and simplicity.

Sweet mango, creamy avocado, and protein-packed quinoa create a texture party in your mouth. The lime dressing? Chef’s kiss.

It’s vegan, gluten-free, and packed with enough nutrients to make your body thank you. Plus, it’s Instagram-worthy—because let’s be real, if it’s not on the ’Gram, did it even happen?

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 1 cup quinoa (uncooked, rinse it—trust me)
  • 2 ripe mangoes (diced, because chunks are life)
  • 1 large avocado (also diced, unless you want guacamole salad)
  • 1/4 cup red onion (thinly sliced, unless you enjoy onion breath for days)
  • 1/4 cup cilantro (chopped, or skip if you’re one of those cilantro-haters)
  • 1/4 cup lime juice (fresh, not the sad bottled stuff)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (extra virgin, because basic oil is basic)
  • Salt and pepper (to taste, or until your ancestors whisper “enough”)

How to Make It (Without Messing Up)

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  1. Cook the quinoa: Rinse it under cold water (skip this, and you’ll regret it). Cook with 2 cups water or broth until fluffy—about 15 minutes.

    Let it cool. Nobody wants a warm avocado.


  2. Chop everything: Dice the mango and avocado, slice the red onion, and chop the cilantro. Pro tip: Do this while the quinoa cooks so you’re not just standing there staring at a pot.
  3. Make the dressing: Whisk lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl.

    Taste it. Adjust. Repeat until it’s perfect.


  4. Mix it all: Toss the cooled quinoa, mango, avocado, onion, and cilantro in a big bowl.

    Drizzle the dressing and gently mix. Don’t smash the avocado—this isn’t guacamole.


  5. Serve or store: Eat it now, or save it for later. Your call.

How to Store This Masterpiece

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

The avocado might brown a little, but a squeeze of lime juice on top helps. FYI, this salad doesn’t freeze well—avocado and freezer are mortal enemies.

Why This Salad Is Basically a Superfood

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Quinoa gives you complete protein, mango delivers a vitamin C punch, and avocado brings the healthy fats. It’s a balanced meal that keeps you full, boosts your immune system, and makes you feel like you’ve got your life together.

Even if you don’t.

Common Mistakes (Don’t Be That Person)

  • Not rinsing quinoa: It’s bitter if you skip this. Rinse it like it owes you money.
  • Over-mixing: You’ll end up with mush. Gentle is the way.
  • Using unripe mango or avocado: Hard mango = sad salad.

    Squishy avocado = regret.


Swaps and Subs (Because Life Happens)

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  • No quinoa? Use couscous or brown rice.
  • Hate cilantro? Try parsley or mint.
  • Not vegan? Add feta or grilled chicken for extra protein.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, but add the avocado right before serving. Otherwise, it turns into a brown mess that looks like it’s seen things.

Is this salad kid-friendly?

Depends on the kid. Mine would pick out the onions and cilantro, but the mango and avocado usually win them over.

Can I use frozen mango?

Sure, but thaw and drain it first.

Unless you want a watery salad. (Spoiler: You don’t.)

Final Thoughts

This salad is stupidly easy, ridiculously healthy, and surprisingly addictive. It’s the kind of meal that makes you feel like you’ve unlocked a secret life hack. Make it.

Eat it. Thank me later.

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