Black Bean Quinoa Salad

If you’re in need of a quick, healthy, and tasty meal that you can customize to your liking, this Black Bean Quinoa Salad recipe just might do the trick. It’s super versatile, making it perfect for any occasion—whether you’re enjoying it as a hearty main dish or serving it as a side. Bursting with protein, fiber, and fresh veggies, this meal is not only satisfying but also incredibly wholesome.

Quinoa is a true superstar in the food world, and when paired with hearty black beans and a zesty dressing, you’ve got a dish that’s as delicious as it is nourishing. Whether you're prepping for a busy week or whipping up a cozy family dinner, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. It truly is versatile! You can add or leave out what you want in this recipe—and it will still be amazing!

Wrap in a warm tortilla, use as dip with chips, eat it on it’s own or with some blackened chicken breast— however you choose to enjoy this Black Bean Quinoa Salad, it is sure to become a favorite.

Servings: 6

Prep Time: 15 mins

Cooking Time: 30 mins

Ingredients:

• 1 cup quinoa

• 1 3/4 cup low-sodium broth or water

• 2 cloves garlic, minced (or 1/2 tsp of powdered garlic)

• One 15 oz. can of black beans, drained & rinsed

• 1 bell pepper, diced-color of choice

• 1 1/4 red onion (optional)

For topping:

• 2-3 Tbsp minced cilantro

• 1/2 diced avocado

Lime Dressing

• 3 Tbsp lime juice (preferably fresh)

• 2 Tbsp avocado oil or olive oil

• 1 tsp chipotle powder, smoked paprika, or chili powder

• 1/2 tsp cumin

• 1 tsp raw honey or coconut sugar

• salt & pepper to taste

Directions

• Cook quinoa with the garlic as directed in the broth or water

• Drain black beans, add to a large bowl with quinoa

• Dice bell pepper and onion, add to quinoa mixture

Set quinoa mixture aside, and in a new bowl mix:

• Fresh lime juice

• Olive oil or avocado oil

• Chipotle powder, smoked paprika, or chili powder

• Cumin

• Honey or coconut sugar

• Salt & pepper to taste

Mix the dressing into the salad and top with fresh cilantro and avocado when serving. Store in airtight container in fridge for up to 3 days.

Enjoy!!!

Disclaimer: I am not a doctor, mental health provider, or a licensed dietician, and therefore this is not official licensed medical, clinical, or nutrition advice. These are things that I have implemented in my own life and utilized in my personal training, nutrition coaching, and health coaching practice after spending a substantial amount of time studying and practicing these techniques in fitness, habit change, and nutrition (still, I’m not a licensed dietician). They are not meant to cure any ailment, and they are certainly not meant to serve as a replacement for any mental or medical healthcare treatment. It is important to always consult your own physician before beginning an exercise, mental health, or nutrition program of any type.