This Quinoa and Black Beans recipe is a hearty, protein-packed dish that’s both nutritious and flavorful. With the combination of fluffy quinoa, tender black beans, and vibrant spices, this meal is perfect as a standalone dish, a side, or even as a filling for tacos or wraps!
📋 Ingredients:
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed 🍚
- 2 cups vegetable broth (or water) 🍲
- 1 tablespoon olive oil 🛢️
- 1 small onion, finely chopped 🧅
- 3 cloves garlic, minced 🧄
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin 🌿
- 1 teaspoon chili powder 🌶️
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat) 🌶️
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed 🫘
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (optional) 🍅
- 1/2 cup frozen or fresh corn kernels 🌽
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro 🌿
- Juice of 1 lime 🍋
- Salt and pepper to taste 🧂
📝 Instructions:
1. Cook the Quinoa:
- Rinse the quinoa:
- Rinse the quinoa under cold water to remove any bitterness.
- Cook the quinoa:
- In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth (or water) to a boil. Add the rinsed quinoa, cover, and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 15 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and fluff with a fork.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet:
- While the quinoa is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Sauté the onions and garlic:
- Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet, cooking for 3-4 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent.
3. Add the Beans and Spices:
- Add spices and beans:
- Stir in the cumin, chili powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Add the black beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and corn. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until heated through.
4. Combine and Garnish:
- Mix in the cooked quinoa:
- Add the cooked quinoa to the skillet with the bean and vegetable mixture. Stir well to combine all the flavors.
- Add cilantro and lime juice:
- Stir in the fresh cilantro and lime juice, adjusting the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve:
- Garnish and enjoy:
- Serve the Quinoa and Black Beans warm. Garnish with extra cilantro or a dollop of sour cream if desired.
🍽️ Tips:
- Make it a meal: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for additional protein.
- Customize the heat: Adjust the amount of chili powder and cayenne pepper to suit your spice preference.
⏱️ Preparation Time: 10 minutes
⏱️ Cooking Time: 20 minutes
🍽️ Servings: 4 servings
This Quinoa and Black Beans dish is a satisfying and versatile meal that’s full of flavor, nutrition, and color! 🌿🍛🌽