# What You'll Need:
→ Grains
01 - 1 cup quinoa, uncooked
02 - 2 cups water
03 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
→ Fruits and Vegetables
04 - 1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced
05 - 1 large avocado, diced
06 - 1 cup baby spinach or mixed greens
07 - 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced
08 - 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
→ Nuts and Seeds
09 - 1/4 cup sliced almonds or pecans, toasted
→ Cheese
10 - 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
→ Dressing
11 - 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
12 - 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
13 - 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
14 - 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
15 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
# How to Make It:
01 - Thoroughly rinse the quinoa using a fine mesh strainer under cold running water to remove bitterness.
02 - In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa, water, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 12 to 15 minutes until all water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and allow to cool completely.
03 - Whisk olive oil, lemon juice, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper together in a small bowl or jar until fully blended.
04 - In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, strawberries, avocado, spinach or mixed greens, red onion, basil, and toasted almonds.
05 - Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients and gently toss to ensure even distribution.
06 - Top with crumbled feta cheese if desired. Serve immediately.
