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Southwest Quinoa Salad

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  • Author: Lily Carter
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 3-6 servings 1x
  • Category: Salad, Side Dish, Meal Prep
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Southwest, Tex-Mex
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This Southwest Quinoa Salad is a vibrant, nutrient-rich dish packed with bold flavors, plant-based protein, and fiber. Featuring black beans, sweet corn, juicy tomatoes, and a zesty lime dressing, it’s perfect for meal prep, potlucks, or a light and satisfying meal. Naturally vegan and gluten-free, this salad is a wholesome and delicious option you’ll love!


Ingredients

Scale

For the Salad:

  • 1 cup quinoa, uncooked (or 3 cups cooked)
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup sweet corn (fresh, canned, or frozen & thawed)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/2 red onion, finely diced
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 avocado, diced (optional, for serving)

For the Dressing:

  • 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt & black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Quinoa

  • Rinse quinoa under cold water to remove bitterness.

  • Cook according to package instructions, then let cool to room temperature.

2. Prep the Vegetables

  • Dice the bell pepper, red onion, and cherry tomatoes.

  • Drain and rinse the black beans and corn.

3. Make the Dressing

  • In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.

4. Assemble the Salad

  • In a large bowl, combine quinoa, black beans, corn, tomatoes, bell pepper, red onion, and cilantro.

  • Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to coat.

5. Serve & Enjoy

  • Garnish with diced avocado (if using).

  • Serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes for enhanced flavor.


Notes

  • Let the quinoa cool before mixing – Prevents the salad from becoming mushy.
  • Adjust the spice level – Add cayenne or hot sauce for extra heat.
  • Make it a full meal – Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for more protein.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 250
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 250mg
  • Fat: 8g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 7g
  • Protein: 8g