Quinoa Salad (black bean & cilantro)

By Peggie

"This bright and colorful salad is a great summertime recipe (or anytime you want to feel like it's
summertime). Light and citrusy, it's a whole new way to enjoy quinoa. Lime juice and cilantro give a refreshing kick, while quinoa and black beans provide tasty vegan protein. If you're not vegan, add even more protein by adding chunks of chicken or turkey. Yum!"

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa
• 2 cups water
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 limes, juiced
• 2 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 - 15 ounce can of black beans; drained and rinsed
• 5 green onions, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh chopped cilantro
• salt and ground black pepper to taste

Details

Preparation time 20mins
Cooking time 30mins

Preparation

Step 1

Directions
Bring quinoa and water to a boil in a saucepan. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer until quinoa is tender and water has been absorbed, 10 to 15 minutes. Set aside to cool.
Whisk olive oil, lime juice, cumin, 1 teaspoon salt, and red pepper flakes together in a bowl.
Combine quinoa, tomatoes, black beans, and green onions together in a bowl. Pour dressing over quinoa mixture; toss to coat. Stir in cilantro; season with salt and black pepper. Serve immediately or chill in refrigerator.

This salad tastes great right away, and even better the next day when all the flavors have had the chance to marry. Enjoy!