Southwest Quinoa Salad
Enjoy a vibrant and delicious Southwest quinoa salad, packed with protein-rich quinoa, hearty black beans, sweet corn, crisp vegetables, and zesty lime dressing. Perfect as a healthy, flavorful meal that's easy to make and customizable.
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa cooked and cooled
- 1 cup black beans drained
- 1 cup corn fresh or frozen
- 1 bell pepper diced
- ½ red onion diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- ¼ cup cilantro chopped
- 1 avocado diced (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional add-ins: grilled chicken shrimp, feta or cotija cheese, diced jalapeños
Instructions
- Cook quinoa according to package instructions, let it cool completely.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled quinoa, black beans, corn, bell pepper, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and cilantro.
- Whisk together olive oil, lime juice, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
- Pour dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss gently until evenly combined.
- Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes to let flavors meld.
- Add diced avocado or other optional ingredients right before serving, if desired.
- Serve chilled and enjoy!
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Customize with additional protein or toppings to suit your dietary preferences.
Perfect for meal prep, potlucks, or a quick and healthy lunch or dinner.