Name: California Kiss Cam Summer Bowl
Prep time: 30 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup quinoa (uncooked); 2 cups water; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 large ripe avocado, sliced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1 cup cooked chickpeas (rinsed, drained); 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped; 1/4 cup sliced almonds (toasted); Zest of 1 lemon; Juice of 2 lemons; 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil; 1 tsp Dijon mustard; 1 tsp maple syrup; 1/2 tsp ground coriander; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; Microgreens (for garnish, optional)

California Kiss Cam Summer Bowl

CrushedLemon1034

Inspired by the unexpected, viral energy of that Foxborough concert moment, this California Kiss Cam Summer Bowl playfully brings together disparate elements—bright citrus, creamy avocado, crunchy almonds, and herbaceous freshness—into one harmonious dish. Each bite celebrates synergy and complexity, reflecting the intrigue of chance encounters. A flavor-bridging lemony dressing ties together the seasonal produce and makes this bowl satisfying, vibrant, and ideal for summer dinners in California. Enjoy a dish that's as surprising and shareable as a viral internet moment.

Ingredients

Instructions

Rinse the quinoa under cold water. In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa, water, and salt. Bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15 minutes or until water is absorbed and quinoa is fluffy. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
While the quinoa cooks, whisk together lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, ground coriander, and a pinch of black pepper in a small bowl to make the dressing. Adjust seasoning to taste.
In a large salad bowl, combine cooled quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, chickpeas, basil, and mint. Drizzle with half the dressing and toss gently to combine.
Arrange the dressed quinoa mixture in serving bowls. Top each bowl with avocado slices and sprinkle with toasted almonds.
Drizzle remaining dressing over the avocado. Garnish with microgreens, if using. Serve immediately or chilled.