Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Quinoa Black Bean Bowl with Cilantro Lime Dressing

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews
  • Author: Lissa Thomas
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Cuisine: Continental
  • Diet: Vegan

Description

A vibrant, protein-packed plant-based bowl that’s perfect for lunch or dinner! Loaded with fiber-rich quinoa, black beans, crunchy veggies, and a zesty cilantro lime dressing—this easy, vegan-friendly, anti-inflammatory recipe.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Quinoa Bowl:

  • 1/2 cup quinoa, rinsed and cooked

  • 1/2 cup black beans, cooked or canned (rinsed)

  • 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

  • 1/4 cup cucumber, chopped

  • 1/4 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)

  • 1/4 red bell pepper, diced

  • 1 tbsp red onion, finely chopped

  • 1/2 small avocado, diced (optional)

  • Fresh cilantro leaves (for garnish)

For the Cilantro Lime Dressing:

  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves

  • 1 tbsp lime juice (freshly squeezed)

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 tbsp water (adjust for texture)

  • ½ tsp cumin powder (adjust for taste)

  • ½ tsp honey or maple syrup

  • 1/2 small garlic clove

  • Salt to taste


Instructions

  • Cook the quinoa: Rinse and cook 1 cup of quinoa with 2 cups water. Once fluffy, let it cool.

  • Prepare the dressing: In a blender, combine cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, water, cumin, garlic, sweetener, and salt. Blend until smooth.

  • Assemble the bowl: In a large bowl, combine quinoa, black beans, tomatoes, cucumber, corn, bell pepper, and onion.

  • Add dressing: Drizzle the cilantro lime dressing over the bowl and toss well.

  • Top it off: Add diced avocado and fresh cilantro. Serve immediately or chill for 15 minutes.


Notes

Tips & Variations

  • Add grilled tofu, paneer, or tempeh for extra protein

  • Swap black beans with chickpeas or kidney beans

  • Use lemon juice if lime isn’t available

  • Keeps well in the fridge for 2–3 days

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Dressing can be stored separately for up to 5 days.


Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1
  • Calories: 215 Kcal
  • Fat: 9 g
  • Carbohydrates: 26 g
  • Protein: 7 g