A simple, nutritious quinoa salad featuring brain-healthy ingredients like avocado, tomatoes, and olive oil. Perfect for caregivers seeking a quick, wholesome meal that supports memory and overall brain health.
A simple MIND Diet recipe built around everyday ingredients that support a brain-healthy eating pattern.
Brain Care Score: 85 / 100
A practical Alzheimer’s Weekly score based on MIND-style ingredients and limits on less brain-friendly ingredients.
Why it scores well:
- Includes leafy greens
- Uses whole grains
- Uses olive oil
- Includes avocado
This is an editorial nutrition guide, not medical advice.
Colorful Quinoa Salad with Avocado and Tomato
A simple, nutritious quinoa salad featuring brain-healthy ingredients like avocado, tomatoes, and olive oil. Perfect for caregivers seeking a quick, wholesome meal that supports memory and overall brain health.
Ingredients
Method
- Rinse the quinoa under cold water until water runs clear to remove bitterness.
- In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let sit covered for 5 minutes.
- Fluff the cooked quinoa with a fork and transfer to a large bowl to cool slightly.
- Add diced avocado, chopped tomato, and finely chopped kale to the quinoa.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until combined.
- Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss gently to combine evenly.
- Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top before serving.
Notes
This colorful quinoa salad provides a balance of healthy fats from avocado and olive oil, fiber and antioxidants from kale and tomato, and plant-based protein from quinoa. It's easy to prepare with minimal chopping and cooking steps, making it caregiver-friendly for busy days. The lemon juice adds brightness, encouraging appetite and hydration.
