Quinoa Black Bean Corn Salad with Cilantro Lime Dressing

This invigorating and nutritious salad is a delightful blend of quinoa, black beans, and corn, enhanced with a refreshing cilantro lime dressing. It’s not just a feast for your taste buds but also for your eyes with its vibrant, colorful ingredients. Perfect as a side dish, or even as a main for a light, healthy meal.

Ingredients:

For the Salad:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water
– 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1 cup fresh corn kernels (or canned/frozen, if not in season)
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
– 1 ripe avocado, diced

For the Dressing:
– 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2-3 limes)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon honey (optional)
– Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the Quinoa: Rinse the quinoa under cold water. In a medium saucepan, combine the quinoa and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until the water is absorbed and the quinoa is tender. Remove from heat and let it cool.

2. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, ground cumin, honey (if using), salt, and black pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.

3. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, black beans, corn, red bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine all ingredients well.

4. Final Touch: Gently fold in the diced avocado just before serving to avoid it becoming mushy.

5. Serve: This salad can be served immediately at room temperature or chilled in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together beautifully.

Enjoy this vibrant Quinoa Black Bean Corn Salad with Cilantro Lime Dressing as a healthy meal on its own or as a delightful side!