Description
A nutritious and flavorful Black Bean & Quinoa Bowl featuring fluffy quinoa, seasoned black beans, fresh vegetables, and creamy homemade guacamole. This Mexican-inspired, vegan, gluten-free, and vegetarian dish is perfect for a healthy main course, offering a balanced mix of protein, fiber, and vibrant flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Quinoa and Beans
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Juice of 1 lime
Vegetables
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Guacamole
- 2 ripe avocados, peeled and pitted
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook Quinoa: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and water or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the quinoa is fluffy and all liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat, keep covered, and let sit for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
- Prepare Seasoned Black Beans: While the quinoa cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the drained black beans along with ground cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until beans are heated through and spices are fragrant.
- Make Guacamole: In a small bowl, mash the avocados with lime juice, chopped cilantro, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth or slightly chunky, based on your preference.
- Assemble Bowls: Divide the cooked quinoa evenly among four bowls. Top each portion with the seasoned black beans, cherry tomatoes, corn, diced red bell pepper, sliced red onion, and a generous scoop of guacamole.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle each bowl with fresh chopped cilantro and a final squeeze of lime juice before serving to brighten flavors.
Notes
- Add a dollop of sour cream or sprinkle with shredded cheese for extra creaminess if desired.
- For added protein, top the bowls with grilled chicken or tofu.
- Great for meal prep—store quinoa, black beans, veggies, and guacamole separately and assemble just before eating for maximum freshness.
