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Black Bean Veggie Quinoa Salad is a colorful and nutritious dish that packs a healthy punch. Full of protein, fiber, and vitamins, this salad is perfect for light lunches, side dishes, or a quick dinner. It combines hearty quinoa with vibrant veggies and creamy avocado, making it delicious and satisfying.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is not just tasty; it is also rich in nutrients. Quinoa is a complete protein, which means it contains all nine essential amino acids. The black beans add even more protein and fiber, while the vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy healthy eating without sacrificing flavor!

How to Make Black Bean Veggie Quinoa Salad

Ingredients

1 cup quinoa
2 cups water
1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
1 bell pepper, diced
1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
1 avocado, diced
1 small red onion, diced
1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
Juice of 1 lime
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Rinse quinoa under cold water. In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add quinoa, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until water is absorbed.
In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, black beans, bell pepper, corn, avocado, red onion, and cilantro.
In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Pour dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
Serve immediately or refrigerate to let flavors meld.

How to Serve Black Bean Veggie Quinoa Salad

You can serve this salad on its own for a light meal or as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish. It’s also great in wraps or as a filling for tacos. Feel free to enjoy it chilled or at room temperature!

How to Store Black Bean Veggie Quinoa Salad

To store leftovers, place the salad in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3 days. The flavors may deepen over time, making it even tastier!

Tips to Make Black Bean Veggie Quinoa Salad

Make sure to rinse the quinoa well to remove its natural bitter coating.
Feel free to add more veggies like cherry tomatoes, cucumber, or spinach for added nutrition.
For a spicy kick, add some diced jalapeños or chili powder to the salad.

Variation

You can easily change this salad by using different grains, like brown rice or farro. Additionally, swapping out the black beans for chickpeas or kidney beans is a delicious alternative!

FAQs

1. Can I make this salad in advance?
Yes! You can prepare it one day ahead and keep it in the fridge. The flavors will blend nicely.

2. How do I make this salad vegan?
This recipe is already vegan! It contains no animal products.

3. Is quinoa gluten-free?
Yes, quinoa is naturally gluten-free, making this salad suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Enjoy making and sharing your Black Bean Veggie Quinoa Salad!