Peruvian Chicken Avocado Quinoa Salad Recipes

CHICKEN, AVOCADO CREAM AND QUINOA SALAD-IN-A-JAR

Steps:

• Make the quinoa: Bring the quinoa and 1 1/4 cups water to a boil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Cover, reduce heat to medium-low and gently simmer until the quinoa is tender (the little tails will pop out) and most of the water is absorbed, 20 to 25 minutes. Drain off any excess water. Stir in the cilantro, scallions, oil and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Serve warm or at room temperature. (The quinoa can be cooled, covered and refrigerated for up to 2 days. Microwave just enough to take the chill off, about 2 minutes, stirring about halfway through.)
• Make the avocado cream: Process or blend the avocado, sour cream, Parmesan, lime juice, 1 to 2 tablespoons water, cayenne and 3/4 teaspoon salt in a food processor or blender until smooth and creamy.
• If the corn still has a chill, microwave it for about 1 minute.
• Assemble the salads: Using four 16-ounce wide-mouthed glass jars with lids, divide the quinoa evenly among the jars, then add the following in separate layers: the corn, chicken, salsa, avocado cream and pepitas. Pack the crushed tortilla chips (about 1/4 cup per salad) and lime wedges in separate small containers for transporting.
• Just before serving, transfer the jarred ingredients to a large bowl, add the tortilla chips and a squeeze of lime juice and toss.

QUINOA SALAD WITH CHICKEN, ALMONDS AND AVOCADO

Steps:

• Bring a large saucepan of generously salted water to a boil. Add quinoa and boil, stirring occasionally, until tender, 10 to 15 minutes.
• Meanwhile, whisk the shallot, vinegar, mustard, oil and a generous pinch of salt and pepper in a very large bowl. When quinoa is done, drain very well, then add to the dressing, along with the chicken, cranberries and parsley. Fold until evenly mixed and cooled, then season to taste with salt and pepper.
• Divide the salad among dishes and top with the chopped almonds and avocado.