Fresh Citrus Avocado Quinoa Bowl

Featured in: Light Garden Bowls & Greens

This vibrant bowl layers protein-rich quinoa with zesty orange and grapefruit segments, creamy diced avocado, and pomegranate seeds. Tossed with fresh spinach or arugula, herbs like cilantro and mint, and a tangy honey-lemon dressing, it offers a refreshing balance of flavors and textures. Perfect for a light lunch or wholesome side, it's easy to prepare with simple steps that include cooking quinoa, segmenting citrus, and mixing a flavorful dressing. Optional proteins and ingredient swaps let you customize according to your taste and diet.

Updated on Sat, 06 Dec 2025 15:36:00 GMT
Fresh Citrus & Avocado Quinoa Bowl with bright orange slices and creamy avocado chunks. Save Pin
Fresh Citrus & Avocado Quinoa Bowl with bright orange slices and creamy avocado chunks. | meadowforks.com

A vibrant, refreshing bowl packed with zesty citrus, creamy avocado, and protein-rich quinoa—perfect for a light lunch or a nourishing side.

I enjoy making this bowl for a quick lunch that feels both satisfying and healthy.

Ingredients

  • Quinoa Base: 1 cup quinoa, rinsed 2 cups water ½ teaspoon sea salt
  • Citrus & Avocado: 1 large orange, peeled and segmented 1 large grapefruit, peeled and segmented 1 ripe avocado, diced ½ small red onion, finely sliced ½ cup pomegranate seeds
  • Fresh Greens & Herbs: 2 cups baby spinach or arugula ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped ¼ cup fresh mint, chopped
  • Dressing: 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard ¼ teaspoon black pepper ¼ teaspoon sea salt

Instructions

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Step 1:
In a saucepan, combine quinoa, water, and salt. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and let cool slightly.
Step 2:
While quinoa is cooking, prepare the citrus: peel and segment the orange and grapefruit, removing any seeds and membrane.
Step 3:
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey (or maple syrup), Dijon mustard, black pepper, and salt to make the dressing.
Step 4:
In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, spinach (or arugula), red onion, cilantro, and mint. Drizzle with half the dressing and toss gently.
Step 5:
Add citrus segments, diced avocado, and pomegranate seeds. Gently toss again, adding more dressing as needed.
Step 6:
Serve immediately, garnished with extra herbs if desired.
Product image
Rinse produce, fill pots, and clean cookware easily with flexible spray options for everyday cooking tasks.
Check price on Amazon
Product image
Rinse produce, fill pots, and clean cookware easily with flexible spray options for everyday cooking tasks.
Check price on Amazon
This beautiful Fresh Citrus & Avocado Quinoa Bowl features colorful citrus and vibrant greens. Save Pin
This beautiful Fresh Citrus & Avocado Quinoa Bowl features colorful citrus and vibrant greens. | meadowforks.com

This recipe often brings my family together for a light lunch on sunny weekends.

Required Tools

Medium saucepan with lid Sharp knife Cutting board Mixing bowls Whisk

Allergen Information

Contains None of the major allergens If adding proteins or changing ingredients check labels for allergens

Nutritional Information

Calories 310 Total Fat 14 g Carbohydrates 41 g Protein 7 g per serving

A close-up view of a healthy Fresh Citrus & Avocado Quinoa Bowl, ready to be enjoyed. Save Pin
A close-up view of a healthy Fresh Citrus & Avocado Quinoa Bowl, ready to be enjoyed. | meadowforks.com
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Easily spray or drizzle oil for roasting vegetables, air frying, sautéing, and dressing salads with controlled coverage.
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This bowl is the perfect blend of fresh and hearty flavors that make healthy eating enjoyable.

Recipe FAQs

How is the quinoa prepared for the bowl?

Quinoa is rinsed and cooked in water with sea salt, then fluffed and cooled slightly before combining with the other ingredients.

What citrus fruits are used in this dish?

Fresh segments of orange and grapefruit provide zesty and tangy flavors that brighten the bowl.

How is the dressing made?

The dressing blends extra-virgin olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, black pepper, and sea salt for a balanced, tangy finish.

Can this bowl accommodate dietary restrictions?

Yes, it’s naturally vegetarian, gluten-free, and dairy-free, making it suitable for diverse dietary needs.

Are there suggested protein additions?

For added protein, consider topping with grilled shrimp, chicken, or chickpeas to enhance nutrition and flavor.

Fresh Citrus Avocado Quinoa Bowl

Zesty citrus, creamy avocado, and quinoa join fresh greens in a nourishing, vibrant bowl.

Prep Time
15 minutes
Time in Oven/Pan
15 minutes
Complete Time
30 minutes
Recipe by Meadow Forks Olivia Morgan


Skill Level Easy

Cuisine Modern Californian

Servings Produced 4 Portions

Diet Preferences Vegetarian-Friendly, Non-Dairy, Wheat-Free

What You'll Need

Quinoa Base

01 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
02 2 cups water
03 ½ teaspoon sea salt

Citrus & Avocado

01 1 large orange, peeled and segmented
02 1 large grapefruit, peeled and segmented
03 1 ripe avocado, diced
04 ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
05 ½ cup pomegranate seeds

Fresh Greens & Herbs

01 2 cups baby spinach or arugula
02 ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
03 ¼ cup fresh mint, chopped

Dressing

01 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
02 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
03 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
04 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
05 ¼ teaspoon black pepper
06 ¼ teaspoon sea salt

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 01

Cook Quinoa: Combine quinoa, water, and sea salt in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and allow to cool slightly.

Step 02

Prepare Citrus: Peel and segment the orange and grapefruit, removing seeds and membranes for a clean texture.

Step 03

Make Dressing: Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, black pepper, and sea salt until emulsified.

Step 04

Combine Base Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the cooked quinoa, baby spinach or arugula, sliced red onion, chopped cilantro, and chopped mint. Drizzle with half of the dressing and toss gently to combine.

Step 05

Add Fruit and Seeds: Fold in citrus segments, diced avocado, and pomegranate seeds. Add remaining dressing as needed and toss lightly to incorporate all flavors.

Step 06

Serve: Plate immediately and garnish with additional fresh herbs if preferred for an added fresh touch.

Kitchen Tools Needed

  • Medium saucepan with lid
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk

Allergy Notice

Always review ingredients for allergens. When unsure, consult your doctor.
  • Free from major allergens; verify labels if modifying ingredients or adding proteins.

Nutrition Info (per portion)

This nutritional guidance is for informational use only. For personal advice, speak to a healthcare provider.
  • Total Calories: 310
  • Fat Content: 14 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 41 grams
  • Proteins: 7 grams