Looking for a refreshing and nutrient-packed salad to satisfy your taste buds and nourish your body? Look no further than our Zesty Quinoa and Black Bean Salad! This delightful vegan recipe combines protein-rich quinoa, fiber-packed black beans, and an abundance of fresh vegetables, creating a colorful and wholesome dish that will leave you feeling energized and satisfied.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Our Zesty Quinoa and Black Bean Salad is not your ordinary salad; it's a fiesta of flavors! The nutty quinoa and creamy black beans provide a hearty base, while the combination of juicy cherry tomatoes, crunchy bell peppers, tangy lime juice, and fragrant cilantro infuse the salad with a burst of freshness and zest.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Avocado slices (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
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Cook the Quinoa: In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the rinsed quinoa and a pinch of salt. Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let the quinoa simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed. Fluff the quinoa with a fork and set it aside to cool.
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Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lime juice, extra-virgin olive oil, minced garlic, ground cumin, salt, and pepper to create a zesty dressing.
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Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, black beans, cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, red bell pepper, and finely chopped red onion. Pour the zesty dressing over the salad and toss everything together until well combined.
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Add Fresh Herbs: Gently fold in the fresh cilantro to infuse the salad with its aromatic flavor and vibrant green color.
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Chill and Serve: Cover the salad and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Before serving, garnish with avocado slices (if desired) for an extra creamy and nutritious touch.
Our Zesty Quinoa and Black Bean Salad is not only a delightful burst of fresh flavors but also a nutrition powerhouse. Rich in plant-based protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, this salad is a complete and satisfying meal on its own. Enjoy it as a light lunch, a refreshing side dish, or even as a wholesome picnic option. Get ready to fall in love with this zesty and nutritious salad that embraces the essence of vibrant plant-based cuisine!