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The Ultimate 20-Minute Cilantro Lime Quinoa Salad with Black Beans and Corn

A perfectly portioned mound of vibrant cilantro lime quinoa salad featuring black beans, corn, and diced red peppers on a white plate.
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Make this refreshing cilantro lime quinoa salad quickly. It is a healthy, protein-packed dish perfect for meal prepping or serving as a light dinner or side dish. This recipe is naturally gluten-free and vegan.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup dry quinoa
  • 2 cups water or vegetable broth
  • 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup frozen or canned corn, thawed or drained
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 avocado, diced (optional, for serving)

Instructions

  1. Rinse the quinoa well under cold water using a fine-mesh sieve.
  2. Combine the rinsed quinoa and water or broth in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until all liquid is absorbed.
  3. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it stand, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff the quinoa with a fork and let it cool slightly.
  4. While the quinoa cools, prepare the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper.
  5. In a large bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, black beans, corn, red bell pepper, red onion, and chopped cilantro.
  6. Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture. Toss gently until all ingredients are evenly coated.
  7. If using, gently fold in the diced avocado just before serving.
  8. You can serve this healthy quinoa salad immediately or store it in the refrigerator for meal prep.

Notes

  • For the best flavor, let the salad sit for at least 30 minutes after mixing so the dressing absorbs into the quinoa.
  • This recipe works well as a make-ahead salad; the flavors deepen overnight.
  • If you prefer a spicier kick, add 1/4 teaspoon of chili powder to the dressing.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://devourdish.com/cilantro-lime-quinoa-salad/