This vibrant Black Bean and Quinoa Power Bowl recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of healthy black bean recipes. It’s packed with nutrients and flavor, making it perfect for a satisfying meal any day of the week.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Quinoa: Brown rice or farro work well as alternatives.
- Black Beans: Canned and rinsed, or cooked from dried.
- Corn: Fresh, frozen, or canned kernels.
- Avocado: Essential for creamy texture; use guacamole if fresh isn’t available.
- Lime: Lemon juice can be a substitute for the dressing.
- Cilantro: Omit if you dislike it. Parsley can be a mild replacement.
Ingredients
For the Bowls:
- 1 cup quinoa, uncooked
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely diced
- 1 large avocado, diced
For the Lime-Cilantro Dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Pinch of black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: Approximately 450 calories
- Tools Needed: Medium saucepan, large bowl, small whisk or fork
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Quinoa
Rinse your quinoa thoroughly under cold water. Combine the rinsed quinoa with water or vegetable broth in a medium saucepan. Bring it to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until the liquid is absorbed.
2. Prepare the Vegetables
While the quinoa cooks, dice your red bell pepper and red onion. Rinse and drain the black beans. Prepare your corn and dice the avocado just before assembling to prevent browning.
3. Make the Lime-Cilantro Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. This simple dressing really elevates these healthy black bean recipes.
4. Assemble the Power Bowls
Once the quinoa is cooked, fluff it with a fork. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, black beans, corn, diced red bell pepper, red onion, and avocado. Gently pour the dressing over the ingredients.
5. Toss and Serve
Toss everything together until well combined and coated with the dressing. You can serve these Black Bean and Quinoa Power Bowls immediately, either warm or at room temperature. Enjoy your delicious and healthy black bean meal!
Variation Ideas
- Add a sprinkle of crumbled feta or cotija cheese for extra flavor.
- Include some chopped mango or pineapple for a touch of sweetness.
- Top with a fried egg for an extra protein boost.
- Stir in some finely chopped jalapeño for a spicy kick.
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a non-vegetarian option.
Storage Instructions
Store leftover Black Bean and Quinoa Power Bowls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It’s best to add fresh avocado just before serving if you plan to store it. You can enjoy them cold or gently reheat them in the microwave for a minute or two.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook the quinoa and chop the vegetables a day in advance. Store the dressing separately and combine everything just before serving.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, quinoa is naturally gluten-free, making this a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.
How can I make this spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dressing, or include some diced jalapeño in the bowl.
Can I use canned corn?
Absolutely! Just drain and rinse the canned corn before adding it to the bowl.
What other healthy black bean recipes do you recommend?
Look for black bean soup, black bean burgers, or black bean tacos for more delicious ideas.
Can I skip the cilantro?
Yes, if you’re not a fan of cilantro, you can omit it entirely or substitute with fresh parsley.