Watercress Avocado Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

The Watercress Avocado Salad combines the robust, peppery flavors of watercress with the creamy richness of avocados and the hearty wholesomeness of quinoa. This salad is not only delicious looking but also a celebration of fresh, simple ingredients that come together perfectly.

When it comes to salads, some combinations are just extra special. This watercress avocado salad, roasted cherry tomatoes, and quinoa is one of those dishes. It’s a salad that’s bursting with different flavors and textures, making it a real treat. This salad is all about using fresh and wholesome ingredients that come together to create something delicious.

It’s got the peppery crunch of watercress, the creamy goodness of avocado, the sweetness of roasted cherry tomatoes, and the filling ability of quinoa. Whether you’re looking for a quick and wholesome meal, a tasty side dish, or something to impress your friends and family, this watercress avocado salad is a great choice that you’re going to love.

Why You’ll Love the Recipe

• Watercress contributes peppery freshness, while avocado offers creamy richness, and cherry tomatoes bring a burst of sweet and savory delight.
• The creamy avocado, peppery watercress, and sweet-savory roasted cherry tomatoes create a harmonious blend of flavors that dance on your taste buds.
• The addition of quinoa elevates this salad into a satisfying, protein-packed meal that leaves you feeling nourished and full.
• Whether you’re a vegetarian, a vegan, or simply looking for a refreshing and wholesome salad, this recipe can be easily customized to accommodate your dietary preferences.

Ingredients for Watercress Avocado Salad

Watercress: A generous bunch of fresh watercress, washed and trimmed.

Ripe avocados: Typically, you’ll want 1-2 ripe avocados, depending on the serving size and your preference.

Cherry tomatoes: A handful of cherry or grape tomatoes for a burst of sweetness.

Lemon vinaigrette: A light and tangy dressing to enhance the flavors. You can make a simple lemon vinaigrette by whisking together fresh lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, salt, and pepper. Adjust the proportions to your taste.

Substitutions

• Greens: if watercress is unavailable, opt for arugula or baby spinach as a fantastic substitution.
• Tomatoes: while cherry tomatoes are preferred for their sweetness and convenient size, you can use regular tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes.
• Grains: quinoa can be replaced with other grains such as bulgur, farro, or couscous to suit your preference.
• Dressing: balsamic dressing is a great alternative.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Start by rinsing 1 cup of quinoa in a fine-mesh strainer and then cook it according to the package instructions. Add a pinch of salt. Once cooked, allow it to cool to room temperature.
2. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the cherry tomatoes on a baking sheet, drizzle them with olive oil, and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Roast for approximately 15-20 minutes, or until they burst and develop a delightful caramelization. Set them aside to cool.
3. Thoroughly wash the watercress in cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Then, trim the tough stems, leaving mostly the tender leaves and upper stems.
4. Cut the avocados in half, remove the pit, and then scoop out the flesh. Slice the avocado into thin or chunky pieces, as you prefer.
5. In a salad bowl or on individual plates, arrange the watercress as the base of the salad.
6. Next, add the sliced avocados on top of the watercress.
7. Scatter the roasted cherry tomatoes over the plate.
8. Make a simple lemon vinaigrette by whisking together fresh lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, salt, and pepper.
9. Drizzle the dressing over the salad. If you like, you can gently toss the salad to ensure the dressing is evenly distributed. However, you can also serve it as a composed salad with the ingredients arranged beautifully on the plate.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

• Perfect Timing: To preserve the warm, burst-in-your-mouth quality of the roasted cherry tomatoes, prepare them just before assembling the salad.
• Avocado Love: To keep the avocado looking vibrant and fresh, add it to the salad just before serving.
• Dressing Variations: Don’t hesitate to customize the dressing with a touch of honey, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, or a hint of Dijon mustard for an extra layer of flavor.

Serving Options

• Enjoy this salad as a light yet filling meal on its own.
• Pair it with grilled chicken or succulent shrimp to incorporate an extra dose of protein.
• Serve it as a side dish, it pairs beautifully with a wide range of main courses.

Variations of watercress avocado salad

• Amplify the protein content by adding grilled chicken, tofu, or chickpeas.
• Elevate your salad’s texture by incorporating toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds for a delightful crunch.
• For an extra creamy dimension, crumble some feta or goat cheese over the top.
• Fresh herbs like basil, cilantro, or mint can be sprinkled over the salad for a burst of freshness and fragrance.

FAQs about making Watercress Avocado Salad Recipe

This Watercress and Avocado Salad with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes and Quinoa takes the beauty of simplicity, freshness, and healthfulness. It’s a testament to how a handful of fresh, simple ingredients can come together to create a flavorful dish that will leave you craving more.