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Easy • Vegetarian

Zesty Quinoa & Black Bean Salad

A refreshing and protein-packed salad with quinoa, black beans, corn, and a vibrant lime dressing.

Prep
15 min
Cook
15 min
Servings
4
Level
Easy
Zesty Quinoa & Black Bean Salad

This Zesty Quinoa & Black Bean Salad is a powerhouse of flavor and nutrition! It's super easy to throw together, perfect for meal prep, and makes a fantastic light lunch or a colorful side dish. Prepare to fall in love with its bright, zesty taste!

Ingredients

Yield: 4 servings

For the Salad

  • 1 cup cooked quinoa (from 1/2 cup uncooked)
  • 1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
  • 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/4 red onion, finely diced
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

For the Dressing

  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/4 tsp chili powder (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    If you don't have cooked quinoa, prepare it according to package directions. For 1/2 cup uncooked quinoa, combine with 1 cup water or broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. Fluff with a fork.

  2. Step 2

    In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, rinsed black beans, corn, diced red bell pepper, finely diced red onion, and chopped fresh cilantro.

  3. Step 3

    In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, chili powder (if using), salt, and black pepper until well combined.

  4. Step 4

    Pour the dressing over the quinoa and vegetable mixture. Toss gently to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.

  5. Step 5

    Serve immediately, or chill for at least 30 minutes for flavors to meld. This salad tastes even better the next day!

Tips

  • Add diced avocado just before serving for extra creaminess and healthy fats.
  • For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dressing or a finely diced jalapeño to the salad.

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