Quinoa and Black Bean Salad
Cooked quinoa and black beans form the protein-rich base of this bright, filling salad. A zesty lime dressing ties together crisp vegetables, fresh herbs, and nutty quinoa in a combination that works equally well as a side dish or a standalone lunch. Allow about 30 minutes from start to finish.
Ingredients
Dressing
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil Choose a high-quality, cold-pressed oil for the best flavor
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice Juice of about 1-2 limes
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or agave nectar
- 1 clove garlic minced
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ¼ teaspoon salt to taste
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper freshly ground, to taste
Salad
- 1 cup quinoa rinsed
- 1 15-ounce can black beans drained and rinsed
- 1 cup organic cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 medium red bell pepper diced
- ¼ cup red onion finely chopped
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro chopped
Instructions
- Cook the quinoa. In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups (480 ml) of water to a boil. Rinse 1 cup of quinoa under cold water, then add it to the boiling water. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is tender and has absorbed the water. Remove from heat, fluff with a fork, and let it cool.
- Prepare the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, maple syrup, minced garlic, ground cumin, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
- Assemble the salad. In a large salad bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, black beans, cherry tomatoes, red bell pepper, red onion, and cilantro. Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine.
- Allow the salad to rest for at least 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Notes
To enhance the dish, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor. If cilantro isn't to your taste, substitute with fresh parsley or basil for a different twist.
Nutrition
Calories: 312kcalCarbohydrates: 36gProtein: 7gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 11gSodium: 155mgPotassium: 433mgFiber: 4gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 1195IUVitamin C: 50mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 3mg
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