Fast, quick, and healthy is my motto for everyday meals. One of my favorite meals to make is a quinoa black bean and tomato salad. Now you know there are some stuff that’s healthy but doesn’t really taste that good. Then, there’s stuff that’s fast but you know it doesn’t exactly qualify as a meal. Then there’s stuff that’s fast and healthy that you make but would never dare to serve someone else out of pure embarrassment. Now, I’m here to tell you that this salad is healthy and fast and you don’t have to be embarrassed to serve it. In fact, I would totally encourage you to take this for a picnic, luncheon or serve as a side salad.
Quinoa is native to South America more specifically Bolivia, Chile, and Peru. It is not a true grain, but rather the seed of a plant related to the spinach, beet, and tumbleweed. However, for the most part in cooking it is treated as a grain.
It is a nutritional powerhouse because it is a complete protein meaning that it includes all nine essential amino acids. It is also a high source of lysine, magnesium and copper.
I think this recipe lends itself very well to adapting. For example, corn and avocados would go wonderfully with the mix of ingredients. I also think the butter and vegetable oil could be omitted in favor of just olive oil. Craving greek? Add olives, cucumber and feta. This is the type of recipe that after you make once, you will make it your own. It’s also one of those recipe you can adapt according to what you have on hand.
Quinoa Salad with Black Beans and Tomato (adapted from Gourmet)
Recipe
Ingredients
2 teaspoons grated lime zest
3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 teaspoon sugar
1 cup quinoa
1 (14- to 15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
2 medium tomatoes, diced
½ cup of red onion
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Directions
1. Cook Quinoa according to directions.
2. Make the dressing: mix lime zest and juice, butter, oil, sugar, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4teaspoon pepper in a large bowl.
3. Add quinoa to dressing and toss until dressing is absorbed.
4. Add tomatoes, onion, beans, and cilantro.
Enjoy!
5 Comments
It’s so hard finding new easy, healthy recipes – this looks great, can’t wait to try it!
I love quinoa & am slowly introducing it to my kids. Your salad looks good.
Thanks ladies! This is a salad that should please everyone!
There’a bag of quinoa in my cupboard that’s been staring me down. This looks like the recipe to try. Thanks!
I will definately be trying this now that summer is here, I’ve been searching everywhere for a picnic recipe thats original and healthy, this is perfect! Can’t wait to try it, thanks xox