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Southwest Quinoa Salad with Roasted Peppers

Elina James
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Salads
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 6 servings
Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • For the Salad:
  • 1 cup quinoa (uncooked)
  • 2 cups water or vegetable broth
  • 2 red bell peppers
  • 1 yellow bell pepper
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
  • 1 small red onion, finely diced
  • 1 avocado, diced
  • ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • For the Southwest Lime-Cumin Dressing:
  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 1½ limes)
  • 1 teaspoon lime zest
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1 teaspoon honey or agave syrup (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Step 1: Cook the Quinoa : Rinse the quinoa under cold water using a fine-mesh sieve to remove any bitterness. In a medium saucepan, bring water or broth to a boil. Add the quinoa, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and let it cool completely.
  • Step 2: Roast the Peppers : Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Slice bell peppers into halves, remove seeds, and place them cut side down on a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment. Roast for 15–20 minutes until the skins are charred and blistered. Transfer to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let steam for 10 minutes. Peel off the skins and dice the roasted peppers.
  • Step 3: Prepare the Dressing : In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, lime zest, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic, honey, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  • Step 4: Assemble the Salad : In a large bowl, combine quinoa, roasted peppers, black beans, corn, onion, avocado, tomatoes, and cilantro. Drizzle the dressing over the top. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
  • Step 5: Chill and Serve : Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Serve cold or at room temperature.