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Smartphone photo of a white ceramic bowl filled with Black Bean and Corn Quinoa Salad, showing fluffy grains and red bell peppers. (Black Bean and Corn Quinoa Salad)

Black Bean and Corn Quinoa Salad with Zesty Lime Vinaigrette

A vibrant Black Bean and Corn Quinoa Salad featuring fluffy white quinoa, charred sweet corn, and a zesty lime dressing. Perfect for healthy meal prep and packed with plant-based protein and fiber.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 cups
Course: Lunch, Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Mexican-Inspired
Calories: 285
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 cup (185g) white quinoa dry, rinsed well
  • 2 cups (480ml) water or vegetable broth
  • 1 can (425g) black beans rinsed and drained
  • 1.5 cups (250g) sweet corn kernels fresh or frozen
  • 1 large red bell pepper finely diced
  • 1/2 medium red onion thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro whole leaves for garnish
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) lime juice freshly squeezed
  • 1/3 cup (80ml) extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tsp honey or agave for vegan
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin

Equipment

  • 1 Medium Saucepan For cooking quinoa
  • 1 Cast Iron Skillet For charring the corn

Method
 

Cook the Quinoa
  1. Combine rinsed quinoa and water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then cover and simmer on low for 15 minutes.
  2. Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and spread on a tray to cool.
Char the Corn
  1. Heat a skillet over high heat. Add corn kernels and cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until charred edges appear. Cool completely.
Assemble
  1. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, honey, and cumin until emulsified.
  2. In a large bowl, toss the cooled quinoa, beans, charred corn, bell pepper, and onion with the dressing.
  3. Top with a generous amount of whole cilantro leaves before serving.

Notes

Rinse quinoa thoroughly to remove bitterness.
Ensure all ingredients are cooled before mixing to maintain vegetable crunch.