Ingredients and Weight:
- Quinoa, 1 cup
- Black beans, 1 can (15 ounces)
- Corn kernels, 1 cup (frozen or canned)
- Bell pepper (any color), 1/2 cup, chopped
- Red onion, 1/4 cup, chopped
- Jalapeño pepper (seeded and minced), 1/4 cup (optional)
- Lime juice, 2 tablespoons
- Cilantro, 1/2 cup, chopped
- Olive oil, 1/4 cup
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation Time:
15 minutes
Cooking Time:
15 minutes
Difficulty Level:
2 (Easy)
Preparation Method Steps:
- Rinse the quinoa in a fine-mesh sieve until the water runs clear.
- Cook the quinoa according to the package directions.
- While the quinoa is cooking, rinse and drain the black beans.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, black beans, corn, bell pepper, red onion, jalapeño pepper (if using), lime juice, cilantro, and olive oil.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Mix well and let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Nutritional Information:
Per serving (1 cup):
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 10 grams
- Carbohydrates: 35 grams
- Protein: 10 grams
- Fiber: 5 grams
Dish Characteristics:
- Bright and colorful
- Savory and tangy
- Refreshing and filling
- Ideal for a light lunch or dinner
- Easily customizable to suit different preferences
User Comments:
- "This salad is absolutely delicious! The flavors blend perfectly and it's so refreshing."
- "I love the combination of the quinoa and the black beans. It's a great balance of protein and carbs."
- "The lime juice really brightens up the salad and gives it a wonderful freshness."
- "I added some grilled chicken to the salad for a bit of extra protein and it was perfect."
- "This is a great make-ahead salad. It's even better the next day!"
Special Precautions and Tips:
- If you don't have fresh jalapeño pepper, you can substitute with a canned or jarred jalapeño pepper.
- Be sure to rinse the quinoa thoroughly before cooking to remove any bitterness.
- Feel free to add other vegetables to the salad, such as tomatoes, cucumbers, or carrots.
- Serve the salad with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, salsa, or guacamole.
