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Black Bean Quinoa Salad Recipe

Black Bean Quinoa Salad Recipe
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★★★★★

5.1 from 22 reviews

A vibrant and nutritious Black Bean Quinoa Salad featuring fluffy quinoa, protein-rich black beans, fresh cilantro, tangy lime vinaigrette, and crumbled cotija cheese. Perfect for a healthy lunch or side dish, this salad combines bright flavors and wholesome ingredients for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Vinaigrette

  • 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

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup uncooked quinoa
  • 2 cups vegetable broth (optional, can use water)
  • 2 (15-oz.) cans black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1/2 cup sliced green onion
  • 1 cup chopped cilantro
  • 1 cup crumbled cotija cheese

Instructions

  1. Cook Quinoa: Add quinoa and 2 cups of vegetable broth to a medium saucepan and cook according to package instructions, usually simmering for about 15 minutes. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes to absorb any remaining liquid.
  2. Make Vinaigrette: While quinoa cooks, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, minced shallot, honey, sea salt, and black pepper in a large mixing bowl until the dressing is emulsified and smooth.
  3. Prepare Ingredients: Drain and rinse the black beans thoroughly. Chop the cilantro finely and crumble the cotija cheese. Slice the green onions thinly.
  4. Combine Salad: Fluff the cooked quinoa with a fork and add it to the bowl with the vinaigrette. Add black beans, chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, and cotija cheese to the bowl. Toss gently until all ingredients are evenly mixed and coated with dressing.
  5. Chill and Serve: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least one hour to let the flavors meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature as a refreshing main dish or side.

Notes

  • For a vegan version, omit cotija cheese or substitute with a vegan cheese alternative.
  • Using vegetable broth instead of water enhances the quinoa’s flavor.
  • This salad can be made a day ahead and refrigerated, making it ideal for meal prep.
  • Add diced bell peppers or avocado for extra texture and flavor.
  • Adjust honey amount based on preferred sweetness and lime acidity.

Nutrition

Keywords: black bean quinoa salad, healthy salad, vegetarian quinoa recipe, protein-packed salad, lime vinaigrette salad

Find it online: https://foodbylina.com/black-bean-quinoa-salad-recipe/