Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will tantalize your taste buds and revolutionize your understanding of healthy, delicious eating! This Mexican Corn Quinoa Salad is not just another side dish – it's a vibrant explosion of flavors that combines the protein-packed goodness of quinoa with the fresh, bright notes of Mexican-inspired ingredients. Whether you're a health-conscious foodie or simply looking to spice up your meal prep, this recipe promises to be your new go-to dish that's as nutritious as it is mouthwatering.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa
- 1 cup corn, cooked
- 1/2 cup black beans, rinsed
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse quinoa thoroughly under cold water using a fine-mesh strainer to remove any bitter coating.
- In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa with 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until water is absorbed and quinoa is fluffy.
- Remove quinoa from heat and let it rest, covered, for 5 minutes. Then fluff with a fork and transfer to a large mixing bowl to cool slightly.
- While quinoa is cooling, prepare the vegetables: dice the red bell pepper into small, uniform pieces and chop fresh cilantro.
- Add cooked corn, rinsed black beans, diced red bell pepper, and chopped cilantro to the quinoa.
- In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper to create a simple dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture and gently toss to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lime juice as needed.
- Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together, or serve immediately at room temperature.
Tips
- Quinoa Rinsing is Key: Always rinse quinoa thoroughly to remove the natural saponin coating, which can make it taste bitter. Use a fine-mesh strainer and rinse until the water runs clear.
- Perfect Quinoa Texture: Let the quinoa rest for 5 minutes after cooking and fluff with a fork to ensure light, separated grains that won't clump together.
- Maximize Flavor: For an extra flavor boost, consider toasting the quinoa in a dry pan for 1-2 minutes before cooking to enhance its nutty flavor.
- Make Ahead Friendly: This salad tastes even better after chilling for a few hours, allowing the flavors to meld together. It's perfect for meal prep!
- Customize Your Salad: Feel free to add grilled chicken, avocado, or swap beans for your favorite protein to make it a complete meal.
- Fresh is Best: Use fresh lime juice and cilantro for the most vibrant flavor profile.
- Temperature Matters: Serve chilled or at room temperature for the best taste and texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 270kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
