Description
Experience the vibrant flavors of our Black Bean Quinoa Salad Recipe, a refreshing and nutritious dish perfect for summer picnics or light dinners. This colorful salad combines protein-rich black beans and quinoa with zesty lime dressing, fresh herbs, and creamy cotija cheese for a satisfying meal that is both wholesome and easy to make. Ideal as a standalone dish or as a delightful side, this salad can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or hosting a gathering, this versatile salad will impress everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- 1 cup uncooked quinoa
- 2 cups vegetable broth (or water)
- 2 (15 oz) cans black beans
- 1/2 cup sliced green onion
- 1 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 cup crumbled cotija cheese
- 1/4 cup lime juice (about 1 lime)
- 1/4 cup olive oil + 1 Tbsp.
- 1 shallot (about 3 Tbsp. minced)
- 1 Tbsp. honey
- 1/2 tsp. sea salt
- 1/8 tsp. black pepper
Instructions
- Cook the quinoa according to package instructions using vegetable broth for added flavor. Let it sit for five minutes after cooking.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, minced shallot, honey, sea salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Drain and rinse black beans; chop cilantro and crumble cotija cheese while quinoa cools.
- Fluff cooked quinoa with a fork and add it to the vinaigrette along with black beans, cilantro, and cotija cheese. Toss gently until combined.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving to allow flavors to meld.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixed
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 10mg