Get ready to embark on a culinary journey that will tantalize your taste buds and revolutionize your weeknight meals! This Tex-Mex Quinoa Bowl is not just another recipe – it's a vibrant, protein-packed masterpiece that combines the wholesome goodness of quinoa with the bold, zesty flavors of Mexican cuisine. Whether you're a health-conscious foodie or simply craving a delicious and easy-to-prepare meal, this recipe promises to be your new go-to dish that will leave everyone at the table asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn
- 1 red onion, diced
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Rinse quinoa thoroughly in a fine-mesh strainer under cold running water to remove any bitter coating.
- In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes until liquid is absorbed and quinoa is fluffy.
- While quinoa is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Dice the red onion into small, uniform pieces and set aside.
- Drain and rinse the black beans in a colander, shaking off excess water.
- Once quinoa is cooked, remove from heat and let stand covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked quinoa, black beans, corn, and diced red onion.
- Sprinkle cumin and salt over the mixture, stirring to distribute seasonings evenly.
- Gently fold in salsa to add moisture and additional flavor to the quinoa mixture.
- Dice the avocado just before serving to prevent browning.
- Divide the quinoa mixture into four serving bowls and top each with fresh diced avocado.
- Serve immediately while warm, with additional salsa on the side if desired.
Tips
- Quinoa Rinsing is Crucial: Always rinse quinoa thoroughly to remove the natural saponin coating, which can make it taste bitter. Use a fine-mesh strainer and cold water for best results.
- Broth Matters: Use a high-quality vegetable broth to add extra depth of flavor to your quinoa base.
- Timing is Key: Let the quinoa rest for 5 minutes after cooking to ensure it becomes perfectly fluffy and absorbs all the liquid.
- Fresh is Best: Dice the avocado just before serving to maintain its vibrant color and prevent browning.
- Customize Your Bowl: Feel free to add protein like grilled chicken or tofu, or make it spicier with some jalapeños or hot sauce.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This recipe can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners.
- Garnish Options: Enhance your bowl with fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime, or a dollop of Greek yogurt for extra flavor and creaminess.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
