QUINOA AND BLACK BEAN SALAD
This Quinoa and Black Bean Salad is a nutritious, flavour-packed dish, ideal for a quick lunch or a light dinner. It combines protein-rich quinoa with black beans, sweet corn, and crunchy red bell pepper, all dressed with a refreshing lime and olive vinaigrette. A touch of fresh cilantro adds brightness, making it a satisfying and healthy option that’s also gluten-free and vegan. Whether enjoyed alone or as a side dish, this salad delivers a wholesome balance of textures and flavours while being incredibly easy to prepare.
RECIPE CATEGORY
Lunch, Dinner, Snack, Entrée, Side
SERVING SIZE
1
CUISINE
Mexican, Latin-American, American
PREPARATION / TECHNIQUES
No-Cook, Quick & Easy, One-Pot Wonders
OCCASION / HOLIDAY
Summer, Picnic, Potluck, Family Meal, Light Lunch, Casual Dinner
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION / DIETARY CONCERNS
Healthy, High Fibre, Vegan, Vegetarian, Wheat / Gluten-Free, Quick & Easy, Low Fat
DISH TYPE
Salad, Side, Light Meal
INGREDIENTS FOR QUINOA AND BLACK BEAN SALAD
- 1/4 cup quinoa, cooked
- 1/4 cup black beans, rinsed
- 1/4 cup corn kernels
- 1/4 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp cilantro, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fat: 9g
- Fibre: 7g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Vitamin C: 40% of DV
- Iron: 10% of DV
- Calcium: 4% of DV
PREPARATION FOR QUINOA AND BLACK BEAN SALAD
- Cook the Quinoa: If not cooked, prepare 1/4 cup quinoa according to package instructions and let it cool.
- Prepare the Salad: Combine the cooked quinoa, black beans, corn kernels, and diced red bell pepper in a mixing bowl.
- Make the Dressing: Whisk together lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture.
- Toss and Serve: Add the chopped cilantro and toss everything together until evenly coated. Adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.
- Enjoy: Serve immediately or store in the fridge until ready to eat.
PREP TIME
10 minutes
COOKING TIME
10-15 minutes (if cooking quinoa)
TIPS FOR QUINOA AND BLACK BEAN SALAD
- Fluff the quinoa with a fork after cooking to prevent clumping, then mix it with other ingredients.
- Use canned or frozen corn for convenience.
- Add a dash of cumin or paprika to the dressing for a layer of warmth and spice.
VARIATIONS
- Add Protein: Top with grilled chicken or tofu for a more substantial meal.
- Add Greens: Mix in some spinach or arugula for freshness and nutrients.
- Spicy Kick: Add a chopped jalapeño or sprinkle of chilli flakes for a bit of heat.
PREPPING AND STORAGE GUIDE FOR BLACK BEAN SALAD
- Fridge: Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavours will continue to develop as they sit.
- Freezing: You can cook and freeze quinoa separately, but the salad is best enjoyed fresh.