Description
A vibrant, flavorful, and healthy Cilantro Lime Quinoa Salad packed with plant-based protein and fresh ingredients. This vegan recipe is perfect for a light lunch, satisfying dinner, or a nutritious side dish. Easy to make and great for meal prep!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed thoroughly
- 2 cups vegetable broth or water
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned and drained)
- 1 red bell pepper, finely diced
- 1/2 medium red onion, finely diced
- 1 bunch fresh cilantro, chopped (about 1 cup packed)
- 1–2 avocados, diced (optional, add just before serving)
- For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (from about 2–3 limes)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- 1. Cook the Quinoa: Combine rinsed quinoa and vegetable broth (or water) in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until liquid is absorbed. Let sit, covered, for 5 minutes, then fluff. Spread to cool slightly.
- 2. Prepare Vegetables: Rinse and drain black beans and corn. Finely dice red bell pepper and red onion. Chop cilantro.
- 3. Make Dressing: Whisk together lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, and chili powder (if using) in a bowl or jar. Season with salt and pepper.
- 4. Combine: In a large bowl, combine cooled quinoa, black beans, corn, bell pepper, red onion, and cilantro.
- 5. Dress: Pour dressing over the mixture and toss gently to coat.
- 6. Add Avocado: Gently fold in diced avocado just before serving, if using.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. It’s best to add avocado just before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: Approx. 280-350 (depending on avocado)
- Sugar: Approx. 5-7g
- Sodium: Approx. 200-400mg (varies based on broth and salt)
- Fat: Approx. 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: Approx. 40-50g
- Fiber: Approx. 8-10g
- Protein: Approx. 10-12g