Fresh Citrus Avocado Quinoa Bowl

Featured in: Light & Bright Everyday Bowls

This bright, refreshing bowl combines fluffy quinoa with tangy citrus segments and creamy avocado for a balanced, satisfying dish. Fresh greens and herbs add a lively contrast, while a lemon-honey dressing enhances the natural flavors. Quick to prepare and perfect for those seeking a wholesome, gluten- and dairy-free option, this bowl offers a delightful mix of textures and vibrant tastes suitable for a light lunch or side.

Updated on Fri, 05 Dec 2025 12:13:00 GMT
Fresh Citrus & Avocado Quinoa Bowl with bright citrus segments, creamy avocado, and fluffy quinoa. Save to Pinterest
Fresh Citrus & Avocado Quinoa Bowl with bright citrus segments, creamy avocado, and fluffy quinoa. | poppyskillet.com

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

This recipe quickly became my go-to for a nutritious lunch that feels indulgent yet 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
Quickly slice, dice, grate, and spiralize vegetables for salads, stir fries, and faster everyday meal prep.
Check price on Amazon
Product image
Quickly slice, dice, grate, and spiralize vegetables for salads, stir fries, and faster everyday meal prep.
Check price on Amazon
Save to Pinterest
| poppyskillet.com

This dish brings joy to family lunches, often prompting requests for seconds from everyone at the table.

Serving Suggestions

Serve chilled or at room temperature with a side of crusty bread or as a refreshing side to grilled meats.

Variations

Add grilled shrimp or chicken for extra protein, or swap the grapefruit for blood orange for a sweeter twist.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days to maintain freshness.

This beautiful Fresh Citrus & Avocado Quinoa Bowl features colorful citrus and is perfect for a light meal. Save to Pinterest
This beautiful Fresh Citrus & Avocado Quinoa Bowl features colorful citrus and is perfect for a light meal. | poppyskillet.com
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This Citrus & Avocado Quinoa Bowl is both simple and sophisticated, perfect for brightening up your meal rotation.

Questions & Answers

How do I cook quinoa perfectly for this bowl?

Rinse quinoa under cold water, then simmer with water and a pinch of salt until all water is absorbed, about 15 minutes. Fluff with a fork before using.

Can I substitute the citrus fruits?

Yes, blood orange or tangerine can replace grapefruit or orange for a different flavor profile without losing brightness.

What dressing complements the ingredients best?

A lemon juice and olive oil-based dressing with a touch of honey and mustard enhances the avocado’s creaminess and citrusy notes.

Is this bowl suitable for special diets?

Yes, it is naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegetarian, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.

How can I add more protein to this bowl?

Top with grilled shrimp, chicken, or chickpeas to increase protein while keeping the dish light and fresh.

Fresh Citrus Avocado Quinoa Bowl

Vibrant blend of citrus, avocado, and quinoa delivering fresh, light flavors in every bite.

Prep Time
15 min
Time to Cook
15 min
Overall Time
30 min
Recipe By Evan Perry


Skill Level Easy

Cuisine Modern Californian

Makes 4 Portions

Diet Preferences Meat-Free, No Dairy, Free from Gluten

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, finely 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

How to Make It

Step 01

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

Step 02

Prepare citrus segments: Peel and segment the orange and grapefruit, removing seeds and membranes.

Step 03

Make dressing: Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey (or maple syrup), Dijon mustard, black pepper, and salt in a small bowl.

Step 04

Assemble base mixture: In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, spinach or arugula, red onion, cilantro, and mint. Drizzle with half the dressing and toss gently.

Step 05

Add citrus and avocado: Incorporate citrus segments, diced avocado, and pomegranate seeds into the bowl. Toss gently again, adding remaining dressing as needed.

Step 06

Serve: Serve immediately, optionally garnished with additional fresh herbs.

Gear Needed

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

Allergy Notice

Please review all components for potential allergens and always reach out to a health expert if you're unsure.
  • Contains no major allergens; verify labels when adding proteins or substitutions.

Nutrition Details (each portion)

Nutritional info is meant to inform; not a substitute for professional advice.
  • Energy: 310
  • Lipid Content: 14 g
  • Carbohydrates: 41 g
  • Proteins: 7 g