Southwest Quinoa Salad
This Southwest Quinoa Salad is a healthy, vibrant dish filled with protein-packed quinoa, black beans, corn, and fresh veggies. Tossed in a zesty lime-cilantro dressing with cumin, it’s the perfect meal prep option, side dish, or light main course for any occasion!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes (for quinoa)
- Total Time: 25-30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4-6
- Category: Salad, Side Dish, Main Course
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Mexican, Southwestern
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
1 cup quinoa, cooked according to package directions
14 ounces black beans (1 can), drained and rinsed
14 ounces corn (1 can), drained
1 red bell pepper, diced
4 green onions, diced
¼–½ cup cilantro, chopped
½ cup fresh lime juice
⅓ cup olive oil
1 teaspoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon salt
Instructions
-
Cook the quinoa: Cook the quinoa according to package instructions. Fluff with a fork and let it cool.
-
Prepare the veggies: Dice the red bell pepper, green onions, and chop the cilantro.
-
Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, combine quinoa, black beans, corn, red bell pepper, green onions, and cilantro.
-
Make the dressing: Whisk together lime juice, olive oil, cumin, black pepper, and salt in a small bowl until smooth.
-
Toss & Serve: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.
-
Chill & Serve: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes for best flavor. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
Add diced avocado for creaminess.
For extra protein, top with grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
Customize the spice level with jalapeños or cayenne pepper.
Find it online: https://familydinnercooking.com/southwest-quinoa-salad/
