QUINOA WITH BLACK BEANS AND CILANTRO

By Grandmax4

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 3 cups white onion -- chopped
• 1 1/2 cups red bell pepper -- chopped
• 1 1/2 cups quinoa -- rinsed and drained
• 3 teaspoons chili powder
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 1/4 cups water
• 1 1/2 15 oz cans black beans -- rinsed and drained
• 3/4 cup fresh cilantro -- divided
• crumbled Cotija cheese or feta cheese -- optional

Preparation

Step 1

1. Heat oil in heavy medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Add onions and red pepper; saute until beginning to soften, about 5 minutes.

2. Stir in next 4 ingredients. add water; bring to boil. Cover, reduce heat to medium low, and simmer until quinoa is almost tender, about 14 minutes.

3. Add beans and 1/2 of the cilantro; cook uncovered until heated through and liquid is fully absored, about 3 minutes.

4. Transfer to bowl; sprinkle with rest of cilantro and cheese, if desired.