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Southwest Quinoa Salad

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 350
A vibrant and healthy quinoa salad packed with black beans, fresh vegetables, and a zesty lime dressing, perfect for a quick lunch or side dish.

Ingredients

Grains

  • 1 cup quinoa
  • 1 3/4 cup water

Spices & Seasonings

  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon agave or maple syrup
  • 1/2 teaspoon lime zest (optional)

Vegetables & Legumes

  • 2 15 ounce cans black beans (drained and rinsed)
  • 10 ounces cherry or grape tomatoes (cut in half)
  • 1 cup frozen corn (thawed)
  • 1 small red or orange bell pepper (small dice)
  • 1/4 red onion red onion (small dice)
  • 1 jalapeño jalapeño (de-seeded and diced finely)

Herbs & Oils

  • 1/2 bunch cilantro leaves (chopped)
  • 1/4 cup olive oil or avocado oil
  • 3 tablespoons lime juice (about 2 limes)

Instructions 

  • Cook the quinoa: rinse and drain, then cook on stovetop or in Instant Pot with spices and water. Fluff and cool.
  • Prepare the dressing: mix oil, lime juice, lime zest (if using), sweetener, and salt in a jar; shake well.
  • Combine cooled quinoa with beans, tomatoes, corn, peppers, onion, jalapeño, and cilantro. Pour dressing and toss to combine.
  • Serve immediately or chill for 15 minutes to enhance flavors. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

Notes

For extra flavor, add a squeeze of fresh lime before serving.
Calories: 350kcal
Cost: $15
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Keyword: quinoa