Description
A vibrant, easy-to-make black bean quinoa salad packed with fresh vegetables and a zesty lime dressing. Perfect for meal prep, lunches, or a healthy side dish.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups vegetable broth or water
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 yellow or orange bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely diced
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional, for heat)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons lime juice (from about 1–2 limes)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (or more, to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
- 1 avocado, diced (add just before serving)
Instructions
- 1. Cook the Quinoa: Combine rinsed quinoa and vegetable broth/water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then simmer covered for 15-20 minutes until liquid is absorbed. Let steam for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork and cool completely.
- 2. Prepare Vegetables and Beans: Dice bell peppers, finely dice red onion, chop cilantro and parsley, mince jalapeño (if using). Rinse and drain black beans.
- 3. Make the Dressing: Whisk together olive oil, lime juice, apple cider vinegar, cumin, chili powder, salt, pepper, and optional minced garlic in a small bowl or jar. Taste and adjust seasonings.
- 4. Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix cooled quinoa, black beans, diced bell peppers, red onion, cilantro, parsley, and jalapeño (if using).
- 5. Dress the Salad: Pour dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss gently to coat evenly.
- 6. Chill (Optional): Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- 7. Add Avocado: Gently fold in diced avocado just before serving.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For best results, store diced avocado separately and add just before serving. This salad is best served chilled or at room temperature and is not meant for reheating.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixed
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: Approximately 300-350 kcal per serving (will vary based on exact ingredients and portion size)
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg (will vary based on broth and added salt)
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 12g