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Black Bean Quinoa Bowl

Black Bean Quinoa Bowl
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The Black Bean Quinoa Bowl is a quick, wholesome, and flavorful meal combining protein-packed quinoa and fiber-rich black beans with fresh vegetables and zesty seasonings. This versatile, nutritious dish is perfect for busy lifestyles, meal prepping, or a satisfying on-the-go lunch, delivering vibrant colors, rich flavors, and balanced nutrition in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

Grains and Legumes

  • 1 cup dry quinoa (rinsed)
  • 1 can (about 15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed

Vegetables

  • 1 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
  • 1/2 cup diced red onion
  • 1 handful fresh cilantro, chopped (plus extra for garnish)

Seasonings and Oils

  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice

Instructions

  1. Cook the Quinoa: Rinse 1 cup of dry quinoa thoroughly under cold water to remove bitterness. In a pot, combine the rinsed quinoa with 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 15 minutes until the water is absorbed and quinoa is fluffy. Remove from heat and let rest, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork before using.
  2. Prepare the Vegetables: While the quinoa cooks, dice the bell peppers and red onion into small, uniform pieces. Chop a handful of fresh cilantro and set aside for garnish. This ensures consistent flavor and texture in the final dish.
  3. Mix the Black Beans: Drain and rinse one can of black beans to reduce sodium and improve texture. Place the beans in a large mixing bowl and season with cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss well to coat evenly with the spices, creating a warm and smoky flavor base.
  4. Combine All Ingredients: Add the cooked quinoa, diced vegetables, and chopped cilantro to the bowl with the seasoned black beans. Drizzle with olive oil and fresh lime juice. Gently toss all ingredients until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary before serving.

Notes

  • Rinse quinoa well to remove bitter saponins and achieve a clean, nutty flavor.
  • Use fresh lime juice to brighten the dish and balance the earthy flavors of beans.
  • Prep quinoa and beans ahead of time to speed up meal assembly on busy days.
  • Include crunchy vegetables like bell peppers for texture contrast in each bite.
  • Add spices gradually to create layers of flavor without overpowering the dish.

Nutrition

Keywords: Black Bean Bowl, Quinoa Recipe, Healthy Meal, Vegan Bowl, Protein Bowl, Meal Prep, Gluten Free, Quick Dinner

Find it online: https://eazyummy.com/black-bean-quinoa-bowl/