Description
Southwest Quinoa Delight combines zesty Tex-Mex flavors with nutrient-packed quinoa for a colorful, satisfying meal. Peppers, black beans, and cilantro create a bold blend that transports you to the heart of Mexican-inspired cuisine.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 cup quinoa
- 1 cup black beans
- 1 cup corn
Protein and Vegetable Additions:
- 1 cup diced bell peppers
- ½ cup diced red onion
- ½ cup chopped cilantro
Dressing and Seasonings:
- 3 tablespoons (45 ml) fresh lime juice
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) honey
- 1 teaspoon (5 ml) chili powder
- ½ teaspoon (2.5 ml) cumin
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Warm a medium saucepan over medium heat and pour of olive oil, gently sautéing minced garlic until its aromatic essence fills the kitchen, approximately 45-60 seconds.
- Add quinoa and vegetable broth to the saucepan, increasing heat to trigger a robust boil, then immediately reduce temperature to low, securely cover the pan, and allow the mixture to simmer quietly until liquid is completely absorbed, roughly 14-16 minutes.
- While quinoa cooks, prepare a vibrant vinaigrette by whisking together fresh lime juice, additional olive oil, honey, chili powder, ground cumin, kosher salt, and cracked black pepper in a small mixing bowl until ingredients harmonize smoothly.
- Transfer the perfectly cooked quinoa to a spacious serving bowl, introducing sweet corn kernels, protein-rich black beans, diced crimson bell peppers, finely chopped green onions, and freshly chopped cilantro.
- Cascade the prepared vinaigrette over the quinoa mixture, gently folding ingredients to ensure even distribution and balanced flavor profile.
- Taste and recalibrate seasonings if necessary, adding pinches of salt or spices to elevate the dish’s complexity.
- Present the Southwest Quinoa Delight either steaming warm or refreshingly chilled, optionally garnishing with creamy guacamole or elegantly sliced avocado for additional texture and richness.
Notes
- Meal Prep Magic: This Southwest Quinoa Delight can be prepared ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinner.
- Protein Powerhouse: Quinoa and black beans combine to create a complete protein source, ideal for vegetarians and those seeking nutritious plant-based meals.
- Flavor Flexibility: Easily customize the dish by swapping vegetables or adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for extra protein and variety.
- Nutrition Boost: Packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals from colorful vegetables and protein-rich quinoa, this recipe supports overall health and wellness.
- Temperature Versatility: Enjoy the dish warm immediately after preparation or chilled as a refreshing salad, making it suitable for different seasons and preferences.
- Spice Level Control: Adjust the chili powder and cumin to match your personal heat tolerance, creating a personalized flavor profile.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Southwestern American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg