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The Ultimate Quick & Zesty Cilantro Lime Quinoa Salad (Vegan & Gluten-Free Meal Prep Favorite)

Close-up of a vibrant cilantro lime quinoa salad mixed with black beans and diced red peppers.
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You can make this refreshing cilantro lime quinoa salad in under 30 minutes. It is a healthy, protein-packed dish perfect for quick lunches, light dinners, or as a gluten-free side dish. This recipe is excellent for meal prep.

Ingredients

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  • 1 cup dry quinoa
  • 2 cups water or vegetable broth
  • 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup frozen or fresh corn kernels
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/2 red onion, finely diced
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 avocado, diced (optional, add just before serving)

Instructions

  1. Rinse the quinoa well under cold water using a fine-mesh sieve.
  2. Combine the rinsed quinoa and water or broth in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until all liquid is absorbed.
  3. Remove the cooked quinoa from the heat and let it stand, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and spread it onto a baking sheet to cool quickly.
  4. While the quinoa cools, prepare the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper.
  5. In a large bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, rinsed black beans, corn, diced red bell pepper, diced red onion, and chopped cilantro.
  6. Pour the dressing over the quinoa and vegetable mixture. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
  7. If using, gently fold in the diced avocado just before serving. For meal prep, store the avocado separately and add it when you eat.

Notes

  • To speed up cooling, you can spread the cooked quinoa on a large plate instead of a baking sheet.
  • This salad holds up well in the refrigerator for up to four days, making it a great choice for easy meal prep salads.
  • For extra flavor, add a pinch of chili powder to the dressing for a Mexican quinoa salad inspiration.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://daisyrecipe.com/cilantro-lime-quinoa-salad/