Try our flavorful Southwest Quinoa Salad with Black Beans and Corn – a delicious and nutritious lunch option packed with Southwest flavors and wholesome ingredients.
Southwest Quinoa Salad with Black Beans and Corn
Elevate your lunchtime with our Southwest Quinoa Salad with Black Beans and Corn recipe. This vibrant and satisfying salad combines protein-rich quinoa, fiber-packed black beans, sweet corn, and a medley of fresh vegetables.
Tossed with a zesty lime dressing and infused with Southwest spices, this salad is a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it a go-to option for a healthy and delicious lunch.
Southwest Quinoa Salad with Black Beans and Corn
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa
- 1 3/4 cups water
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: avocado slices, crumbled feta cheese
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 9g
- Fat: 9g
- Sugar: 4g
Instructions
- Rinse the quinoa under cold water to remove any bitterness.
- In a saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the quinoa is cooked and the water is absorbed.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, black beans, corn, diced red bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and chopped cilantro.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss to combine.
- Let the salad sit for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve the Southwest Quinoa Salad with optional toppings like avocado slices and crumbled feta cheese.
- Enjoy as a satisfying and nutritious lunch option!
Service Suggestion
- Serve the Southwest Quinoa Salad as a standalone lunch or as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish.
- Pack it in a mason jar for a convenient and nutritious on-the-go lunch.
Notes
- Add a handful of baby spinach or arugula for an extra burst of greens.
- For a creamy twist, drizzle with a chipotle ranch dressing.