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Southwestern Quinoa Salad

A vibrant and nutritious salad packed with protein and textures, perfect for any meal or gathering.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Dish, Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Southwestern
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

Salad Base
  • 1.5 cups uncooked quinoa Rinse thoroughly before cooking.
  • 1 cup black beans (drained and rinsed) Rich in protein and fiber.
  • 1 cup corn kernels (drained, canned or thawed frozen) Adds sweetness.
  • 1 medium red bell pepper (diced) Brings vibrancy and crunch.
  • 0.5 piece jalapeno (seeded and minced) Adjust according to spice preference.
  • 2 tablespoons red onion (minced) Adds a flavorful zing.
  • 0.75 cup crumbled feta cheese Creamy and salty addition.
  • 0.25 cup chopped cilantro Provides freshness.
Dressing
  • 1 whole lime (juiced) Adds zesty flavor.
  • 0.5 whole lemon (juiced) Enhances tanginess.
  • 0.25 cup extra virgin olive oil Adds richness.
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin Enhances flavor.
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt Essential for flavor.
  • to taste none freshly ground pepper Adds subtle heat.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Rinse the quinoa thoroughly in a fine-mesh strainer under cold running water.
  2. In a large saucepan, bring three cups of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the rinsed quinoa and cover. Reduce heat to medium and cook for about 15 minutes or until all water is absorbed. Let it sit covered for 10 minutes.
  3. Remove the lid and fluff the quinoa with a fork, allowing it to cool completely. You can spread it out on a baking sheet to speed up cooling.
  4. While quinoa cools, wash and dice the red bell pepper. Mince the red onion and jalapeno, rinse the black beans, and drain the corn kernels. Wash and chop the cilantro.
Dressing & Assembly
  1. In a bowl, whisk together lime juice, lemon juice, olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
  2. Once the quinoa is cool, combine it in a large bowl with black beans, corn, red bell pepper, jalapeno, red onion, feta cheese, and cilantro.
  3. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss lightly to combine.
  4. Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour before serving.

Notes

For variations, consider adding diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, or spinach. To make vegan, omit the feta cheese or use a plant-based alternative. Add smoked paprika or hot sauce for more flavor.