Description
A vibrant and healthy Southwest Quinoa Salad packed with fresh flavors, protein, and a zesty lime dressing. Inspired by the bold, colorful cuisine of the American Southwest, this dish is as delicious as it is nourishing.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup uncooked quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups water
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned and drained)
- 1 large avocado, diced
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1 jalapeño, seeded and diced (for heat)
Instructions
- Rinse the quinoa well under cold water. Combine quinoa and water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until water is absorbed. Remove from heat and fluff with a fork. Let cool.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, black beans, corn, avocado, cilantro, green onions, and red bell pepper.
- In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper. If using jalapeño, add it to the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture. Toss gently to combine and coat everything evenly.
- Serve immediately, or chill in the fridge for an hour for the flavors to meld. Garnish with extra cilantro or lime wedges if desired.
Notes
For extra protein, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or a sprinkle of cheese. To make ahead, prepare all components and store separately, then assemble before serving for the freshest taste. Adjust spice by adding jalapeño or hot sauce to your liking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Southwest
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 440mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 0mg