Description
This Quinoa Salad Bowl is a perfect combination of flavor, nutrition, and convenience. Made with fluffy quinoa, fresh vegetables, black beans, and a zesty lime dressing, this dish is packed with plant-based protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. Whether you’re looking for a quick and healthy lunch, a light dinner, or a meal prep option, this gluten-free and vegetarian-friendly salad is a must-try!
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients:
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 5 green onions, finely chopped
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Salt and ground black pepper, to taste
Dressing:
- ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 limes, juiced
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes, or more to taste
Instructions
-
Cook the Quinoa:
- In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil.
- Add 1 cup of quinoa, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 12-15 minutes or until the quinoa is tender and water is absorbed.
- Remove from heat, fluff with a fork, and let it cool for 5 minutes.
-
Prepare the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, ground cumin, salt, and red pepper flakes until well combined.
-
Assemble the Salad:
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, cherry tomatoes, black beans, green onions, and chopped cilantro.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to coat all ingredients evenly.
-
Season and Serve:
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and black pepper if needed.
- Serve immediately, or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow flavors to blend.
Notes
- Make it a Meal: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for extra protein.
- Spice it Up: Increase the red pepper flakes or add chopped jalapeños for extra heat.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Nut-Free Option: For added crunch, top with roasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds.
- Dairy-Free Alternative: Omit feta cheese for a fully vegan version.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: 6 servings
- Method: Lunch, Side Dish
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 240 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 310mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: quinoa salad bowl, healthy quinoa salad, easy quinoa salad, gluten-free lunch, quinoa meal prep, vegetarian quinoa bowl