High-Protein Quinoa and Black Bean Salad
A hearty, protein-packed salad with quinoa, black
beans, fresh veggies, and a zesty lime dressing. Perfect for a healthy meal or
side dish!
Prep Time: 15 Minutes
Cook Time: 15 Minutes
Total Time: 30 Minutes
Category: Healthy Meals
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: Fusion
Yield: 4 Servings
Dietary: Vegetarian,
Gluten-Free
Ingredients
Salad
Base
·
1 cup quinoa, uncooked
·
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
·
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
·
1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
·
1 bell pepper (any color), diced
·
1 small red onion, finely chopped
·
1 avocado, diced (optional)
·
¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Dressing
·
3 tablespoons olive oil
·
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
·
1 teaspoon cumin
·
1 teaspoon chili powder
·
½ teaspoon garlic powder
·
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional
Toppings
·
Crumbled feta cheese
·
Sliced jalapeños
·
Tortilla strips
Instructions
Step 01
Cook the quinoa: Rinse quinoa under cold water, then combine with 2 cups of
water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for
15 minutes or until water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and let cool slightly.
Step 02
While the quinoa cooks, prepare the veggies: Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice
the bell pepper, chop the red onion, and rinse the black beans and corn.
Step 03
Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice,
cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to
taste.
Step 04
Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, black beans, cherry
tomatoes, corn, bell pepper, red onion, and cilantro. Pour the dressing over
the salad and toss gently to combine.
Step 05
Add optional toppings: If using, gently fold in diced avocado, crumbled feta
cheese, or sliced jalapeños. Serve immediately or chill for later.
Notes
·
For meal prep, store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge
for up to 3 days.
·
Add avocado just before serving to prevent browning.
·
For extra protein, add grilled chicken or tofu.
Tools
You'll Need
·
Saucepan with lid
·
Mixing bowls (small and large)
·
Whisk
·
Cutting board and knife
·
Measuring cups and spoons
Allergy
Information
·
Contains no common allergens (check specific ingredients for
cross-contamination if needed).
·
Gluten-free and dairy-free (unless adding feta cheese).
Enjoy this fresh,
protein-packed salad as a main dish or side! Let me know if you’d like more
variations or tips. 😊
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