Protein-Packed Quinoa Salad
This Protein-Packed Quinoa Salad offers a hit of plant-based protein, crunchy veggies, and bright, fresh flavors. Ideal for fitness enthusiasts, it assembles quickly for a healthy weekday lunch or light dinner, leaving you feeling energetic and satisfied, yet light on your feet.
Ingredients
- 1 cup of quinoa
- 2 cups of water
- 1/2 cup of canned black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup of chopped red bell pepper
- 1/2 cup of chopped cucumber
- 1/2 cup of corn kernels, fresh or frozen
- 1/4 cup of finely chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup of chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 2 tablespoons of fresh lime juice
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse quinoa under cold water using a fine mesh strainer and drain.
- In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the drained quinoa, reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 15-20 minutes or until quinoa is tender and the water is absorbed.
- While the quinoa is cooking, prepare your vegetables. Chop the red bell pepper, cucumber, and red onion. Open the canned black beans, rinse, and drain.
- In a large salad bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, black beans, red bell pepper, cucumber, corn kernels, and chopped red onion.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and fresh lime juice. Pour the dressing over the quinoa salad.
- Stir to combine, then season with salt and black pepper. Toss in the chopped fresh cilantro for that final touch.
- The salad can be served warm immediately, or refrigerated and served cold.
- This protein-rich quinoa salad can be customized and modified as per your taste, consider adding diced avocado, chopped tomatoes, or feta cheese for an added boost of flavor.