Description
A vibrant and refreshing quinoa salad packed with juicy cherry tomatoes, protein-rich black beans, fresh cilantro, and a zesty lime dressing. This dish is quick to make, gluten-free, vegan, and perfect for meal prep or as a side for any gathering. Bright, tangy, and utterly delicious, it’s a crowd-pleaser you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
- Quinoa and Base:
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup quinoa
- Dressing:
- ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- Juice of 2 limes
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salad Additions:
- 1½ cups halved cherry tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 5 green onions, finely chopped
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Salt and ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the quinoa:
Combine water and quinoa in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 10–15 minutes until the quinoa is tender and the water is absorbed. Set aside to cool. - Prepare the dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, cumin, salt, and red pepper flakes. - Assemble the salad:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, cherry tomatoes, black beans, and green onions. - Toss with dressing:
Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture and gently toss to combine. - Add cilantro and season:
Stir in the chopped cilantro and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed. - Serve or store:
Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 1–2 hours for a deeper flavor.
Notes
- Storage Tip: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Freeze for up to 6 months in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
- Variations: Add diced avocado, corn kernels, or feta cheese for extra flavor and texture.
- Serving Suggestion: Enjoy as a main dish or pair with grilled chicken or fish for a heartier meal.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad, Side Dish
- Method: Tossed
- Cuisine: Global Fusion, Vegan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 270
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 310mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Quinoa Salad, Vegan Salad, Gluten-Free Salad, Healthy Recipes, Quick Salad Recipe, Meal Prep Salad