Description
Quinoa and black bean salad is a colorful, nutritious dish bursting with flavor and packed with protein. This vibrant salad combines fluffy quinoa, hearty black beans, crisp bell peppers, and zesty lime dressing for a refreshing meal that’s perfect for any occasion—from summer picnics to cozy family gatherings. Easy to prepare and customizable, this salad will not only tantalize your taste buds but also become a staple in your healthy eating routine.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup quinoa
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
- 1/2 red onion, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tbsp)
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Rinse quinoa under cold water until the water runs clear. In a pot, combine quinoa and 2 cups water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 15 minutes until water is absorbed. Let sit covered for another 5 minutes.
- While quinoa cooks, chop bell pepper and red onion.
- In a bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, black beans, diced vegetables, and cilantro.
- Whisk together lime juice, olive oil, cumin, and salt in a small bowl. Pour the dressing over the salad and mix gently.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for an hour to enhance flavors.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Customize by adding avocado or swapping black beans for chickpeas. Enhance spiciness with diced jalapeños or hot sauce.