🥑 Grilled Avocado Boats with Quinoa & Salsa (Vegan + Gluten-Free)
🌞 A Fresh Take on Summer Grilling
When you think BBQ, you might picture burgers and hot dogs—but what if we told you that one of the tastiest grill recipes this summer involves avocados?
These Grilled Avocado Boats with Quinoa & Salsa are proof that meatless doesn’t mean flavorless. With creamy grilled avocado, hearty quinoa, and zesty corn salsa, this grilled avocado recipe is a showstopper for plant-based eaters and flexitarians alike.
Whether you're firing up the grill for a family cookout or prepping a healthy BBQ side dish, these boats deliver satisfying texture and bold summer flavors in every bite.
🔍 Why You’ll Love This Vegan Grill Recipe
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🥑 Grilled avocado = smoky, creamy perfection
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🌽 Fresh corn salsa adds crunch and tang
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🍋 Naturally gluten-free, vegan, and full of fiber
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🔥 Perfect meatless cookout dish
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⏱ Ready in under 30 minutes!
This dish is nutrient-dense, easy to prep ahead, and beautiful on a platter—ideal for casual dinners or summer parties.
🛒 Ingredients (Serves 2)
- 2 ripe avocados, halved and pitted
- 1/2 cup cooked quinoa
- 1/2 cup fresh corn (or thawed frozen)
- 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: chili flakes or hot sauce for heat
✅ Tip: Choose firm-ripe avocados so they hold up well on the grill.
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Prep the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F). Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Summer Quinoa Salad
In a bowl, mix the cooked quinoa, corn, red bell pepper, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Set aside to let flavors meld.
3. Grill the Avocados
Brush the cut side of each avocado with olive oil.
Place them cut-side down on the grill for 2–3 minutes, or until grill marks appear and they’re slightly softened.
Remove carefully and place on a plate or serving tray.
4. Assemble the Boats
Spoon the quinoa corn salsa into each grilled avocado half.
Garnish with extra lime juice, chili flakes, or a drizzle of hot sauce if desired.
🌿 Variations & Add-Ons
Want to customize your stuffed avocado on the grill? Try these ideas:
- Add black beans for extra protein
- Top with diced mango or pineapple for tropical flair
- Sprinkle with vegan feta or nutritional yeast for a cheesy vibe
- Drizzle with tahini-lime dressing for a creamy finish
🧠 Health Benefits at a Glance
This isn’t just a pretty plate—it’s a nutritional powerhouse:
- 🥑 Avocados: Rich in heart-healthy fats and fiber
- 🍚 Quinoa: A complete protein with all 9 essential amino acids
- 🌽 Corn + Veggies: Antioxidants, vitamin C, and crunch
- 🌿 Lime & Cilantro: Boost digestion and brighten flavor
This recipe is ideal for those following a vegan, gluten-free, or Mediterranean-style diet.
🧊 Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
- Make the quinoa salsa up to 2 days in advance and store in the fridge.
- Grill avocados fresh for best texture, but leftovers can be wrapped and stored for 24 hours.
- Leftover salsa makes a great topping for tacos, grain bowls, or salads!
🌮 Final Thoughts: A Grilled Game-Changer
This grilled avocado recipe is the perfect example of how simple ingredients can create something unexpected and delicious. It’s fresh, colorful, satisfying—and a guaranteed conversation starter at your next summer BBQ.
So ditch the burgers for a night and fire up the grill for this vegan cookout classic. Your tastebuds (and your guests) will thank you.
