Southwest Quinoa Salad
Bursting with bold flavors and vibrant colors, this Southwest Quinoa Salad is a hearty, nutrient-packed dish that’s perfect as a side or main course. Made with fluffy quinoa, protein-rich black beans, sweet corn, and crisp red bell peppers, it boasts a delightful combination of textures and Southwest-inspired tastes. Fresh cilantro and zesty lime juice infuse every bite with refreshing brightness, while a dash of chili powder and cumin adds a warm, smoky kick. This gluten-free and vegetarian salad comes together in just 30 minutes and can be served chilled or at room temperature, making it an ideal option for meal prep, potlucks, or quick weeknight dinners. Pair it with your favorite grilled protein or enjoy it on its own for a satisfying, flavor-packed meal!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup frozen corn, thawed
- 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 0.25 cup red onion, finely diced
- 0.5 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1 small jalapeño, finely diced (optional)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 medium lime, juiced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon pepper
Instructions
Rinse the quinoa under cold water to remove any bitterness.
In a medium saucepan, combine the quinoa and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the quinoa is tender.
Remove the quinoa from the heat and fluff it with a fork. Let it cool to room temperature.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the black beans, corn, red bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, and jalapeño (if using).
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, ground cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
Add the cooled quinoa to the mixing bowl with the vegetables and beans. Pour the dressing over the top.
Toss everything together until well combined. Adjust seasoning with additional salt or lime juice as needed.
Serve immediately, or chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Garnish with additional cilantro, if desired, and serve. Enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
275 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 12.3 g | 16% | |
| Saturated Fat | 1.6 g | 8% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 271 mg | 12% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 37.2 g | 14% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 8.3 g | 30% | |
| Total Sugars | 7.9 g | ||
| Protein | 8.3 g | 17% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 60 mg | 5% | |
| Iron | 2.8 mg | 15% | |
| Potassium | 692 mg | 15% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
