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Southwest Quinoa Salad (Healthy, Protein-Packed & Meal-Prep Friendly)

A colorful and protein-packed quinoa salad with black beans, corn, peppers, avocado, and a zesty southwest dressing, perfect for meal prep.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 bowls
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Healthy, Southwestern
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Salad
  • 1 cup quinoa rinsed
  • 2 cups water or vegetable broth
  • 1 cup black beans drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn kernels fresh, canned, or thawed frozen
  • 1 red bell pepper diced
  • 1 yellow bell pepper diced
  • 1 small red onion finely chopped
  • 1 avocado diced
  • 2 tbsp fresh cilantro chopped

Equipment

  • Saucepan
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Knife

Method
 

  1. Cook quinoa in water or broth until fluffy, about 15 minutes. Fluff and cool.
  2. Whisk together dressing ingredients: olive oil, lime juice, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. Combine cooked quinoa, black beans, corn, bell peppers, and red onion in a large bowl.
  4. Pour dressing over salad and toss to coat.
  5. Fold in diced avocado and chopped cilantro before serving.

Notes

Perfect for meal prep. Store avocado separately if preparing ahead to prevent browning.