| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 20 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 360 | 15g | 2g | 46g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 3g | 9g | 13g | 0.410g |
Why I Love Mexican Quinoa Salad
Certainly, the vibrant colors and alluring aromas that resonate from the Quinoa Salad capture hearts immediately. It’s not just another dish, but a parade of the most nutritious ingredients beautifully tossed together, to create such a culinary masterpiece, is deeply entrenched in the robust flavors of Mexico. A fusion of tangy, spicy, and savory flavors, this recipe has proven to be a winning staple in my kitchen. 
The Flavors of the Quinoa Salad
Every bite of the Quinoa Salad transports you to the luscious valleys and bustling markets of Mexico. The freshness of limes, jabs of jalapenos, and the comfort of quinoa together create a unique gastronomic indulgence. Having descended from a lineage of Spanish and Cuban culinarians, this recipe mirrors how I beautifully combine my heritage with my affection for global flavours. I must mention here the inspiration I take from the famous Mexican chef Pati Jinich, whose take on traditional recipes is always refreshing.
Quinoa Salad: A Versatile choice
While the Quinoa Salad shines on its own, its versatility cannot be ignored. It pairs wonderfully with a variety of Mexican classics like Enchiladas, Tacos, or even grilled or roasted meats. It can also masquerade as a filling for your burritos or as a topping on your nacho platter. If you’re someone who enjoys experimenting, you can also substitute quinoa for couscous and create a variant of the Moroccan classic Tabbouleh.
The fact that this recipe fits perfectly for both weekday dinners and festive feasts in an inimitable balance of wholesomeness and taste, is why I love our Quinoa Salad and recommend it with all my heart. Enjoy the burst of flavors encapsulated in each morsel and be ready to get enchanted by its charm.
Now, if you’re stirred by this description, go and sway to my rhythm in your own kitchen. Prepare the Quinoa Salad, and create your own food symphony. La cocina es amor!
What You’ll Need
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups water
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 limes, juiced
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 1/2 cups halved cherry tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 5 green onions, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 diced bell pepper
- 2 diced jalapeno peppers
- 1 cup frozen corn, thawed
- 1 avocado, chopped
Method
Step One
Begin by rinsing the quinoa under cold water until the water runs clear. This is crucial to remove the bitter outer coating of the quinoa.
Step Two
In a medium-sized saucepan, add the rinsed quinoa and 2 cups of water. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, lower the heat and cover the saucepan, allowing it to simmer for around 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is tender and the water has been absorbed.
Step Three
While the quinoa is cooking, prepare the dressing. In a small bowl, combine the extra-virgin olive oil, lime juice, ground cumin, salt, and optionally the red pepper flakes. Whisk until well combined.
Step Four
In a large bowl, add the cooked quinoa and top with the halved cherry tomatoes, drained black beans, finely chopped green onions, chopped fresh cilantro, diced bell pepper, diced jalapeno peppers, thawed frozen corn, and chopped avocado.
Step Five
Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture and gently stir until everything is well combined and evenly coated.
Step Six
Fridge the salad until chilled or serve immediately, as per your preference. Enjoy your refreshing and delicious quinoa salad!
