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Southwest Quinoa Salad with Zesty Lime Dressing


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  • Author: Chef Emma
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A vibrant and nourishing quinoa salad with a zesty lime dressing, perfect for meal prep or a healthy lunch.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
  • 2 cups vegetable broth or water
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 avocado, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Juice of 2 limes
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the Quinoa: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and vegetable broth or water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, covering it for about 15 minutes or until all the liquid is absorbed and the quinoa is tender. Fluff with a fork and let it cool.
  2. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, cumin, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This zesty dressing will bring all the flavors together.
  3. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, black beans, cherry tomatoes, corn, diced red bell pepper, diced avocado, red onion, and cilantro.
  4. Dress It Up: Pour the zesty lime dressing over the salad mixture. Toss gently to combine, ensuring the ingredients are well-coated.
  5. Taste and Adjust: Taste your salad and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lime juice if necessary.
  6. Serve or Store: Enjoy immediately or refrigerate for later! This salad stays fresh for up to 5 days, making it a fabulous choice for meal prep.

Notes

For added crunch, toss in pumpkin or sunflower seeds. Customize with different veggies or grains as you prefer.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Boiling
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 200mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 8g
  • Protein: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg