Description
Southwest Quinoa Salad is a vibrant blend of protein-rich quinoa, black beans, and fresh vegetables, all drizzled with a zesty lime dressing. This nutritious dish is perfect for meal prep or as a refreshing side at any gathering. Enjoy the explosion of flavors in every bite!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine rinsed quinoa and 2 cups water. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until water is absorbed. Let sit covered for an additional 5 minutes.
- While the quinoa cooks, chop the bell pepper and red onion. Rinse the black beans under cold water.
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, cumin powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- In a large bowl, add cooked quinoa (cooled slightly), black beans, corn, diced vegetables, and dressing. Toss gently to combine.
- Enjoy immediately or refrigerate for later use—this salad tastes even better after sitting for an hour!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Southwestern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 290mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: For added creaminess, top with avocado just before serving. Customize with seasonal veggies like zucchini or cherry tomatoes. To enhance protein content, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp.