Simple Black Bean Corn Quinoa Salad Recipe
Introduction
This Simple Black Bean Corn Quinoa Salad is a nutritious and colorful dish that’s perfect for a quick lunch or as a vibrant side. Packed with protein and fresh veggies, it’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa (cooked)
- 1/2 cup black beans
- 1 tomato (chopped)
- 1/2 red onion (chopped)
- 1/3 cup corn (fresh, removed from the cob)
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 2 teaspoons cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook the quinoa according to package instructions if not using pre-cooked quinoa.
- Step 2: While the quinoa cooks, chop the tomato and red onion, and remove the corn kernels from the cob.
- Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, combine the black beans, chopped tomato, red onion, corn, lime juice, cumin, and garlic salt.
- Step 4: Once the quinoa is cooked and slightly cooled, add it to the bowl with the other ingredients.
- Step 5: Stir everything until thoroughly combined. Serve warm or chilled as a side dish or a light meal.
Tips & Variations
- For added freshness, toss in chopped cilantro or parsley before serving.
- Use canned black beans for convenience, but rinse and drain them well to reduce sodium.
- Add diced avocado for a creamy texture and extra healthy fats.
- Swap lime juice with lemon juice for a slightly different citrus flavor.
Storage
Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It tastes great cold or at room temperature. If stored chilled, you can let it sit out for a few minutes before serving to soften the flavors.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use canned corn instead of fresh corn?
Yes, canned corn works well and adds convenience. Just be sure to drain and rinse it to remove excess salt and sugars.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This salad holds up well for a few days, making it perfect for prepping lunches or quick dinners ahead of time.
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Simple Black Bean Corn Quinoa Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A vibrant and nutritious Simple Black Bean Corn Quinoa Salad featuring protein-packed quinoa, black beans, fresh corn, and tomatoes, all tossed in a tangy lime and cumin dressing. Perfect as a wholesome side dish or a light meal served warm or cold.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa (cooked)
- 1/2 cup black beans (cooked or canned, drained and rinsed)
- 1 tomato (chopped)
- 1/2 red onion (chopped)
- 1/3 cup corn (fresh, removed from the cob)
Dressing and Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 2 teaspoons cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt
Instructions
- Prepare Quinoa: Cook the quinoa according to package instructions if not already cooked. Typically, rinse 1 cup quinoa, then simmer in 2 cups water until water is absorbed and quinoa is fluffy, about 15 minutes.
- Chop Vegetables: While the quinoa is cooking, chop the tomato and red onion finely. Remove fresh corn kernels from the cob.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked quinoa, black beans, chopped tomato, red onion, and corn.
- Add Dressing and Seasonings: Pour in the lime juice, sprinkle the cumin and garlic salt over the mixture.
- Toss Salad: Stir all ingredients thoroughly until evenly combined and coated with the seasoning and lime juice.
- Serve: Enjoy the salad warm right after combining or chill in the refrigerator for a refreshing cold dish. This salad works well as a side or a light main meal.
Notes
- This salad can be served warm or cold to suit your preference.
- Using canned black beans reduces prep time; be sure to rinse to remove excess sodium.
- For added texture and nutrition, consider adding chopped cilantro or avocado.
- Lime juice can be adjusted to taste for more tanginess.
- Quinoa can be pre-cooked and stored for quick assembly when needed.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Latin American
Keywords: black bean salad, quinoa salad, corn salad, healthy salad, vegetarian salad, gluten free salad
