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Southwest Quinoa Bowl

Featured in: Flavorful Vegan Meals and Snacks

The Southwest Quinoa Bowl mixes fluffy quinoa, sweet corn, beans, and veggies in a vibrant lime dressing. It's quick and easy to prep, ideal for a side dish or light meal. Enjoy warm or chilled, great for potlucks or storing for meal prep. The zesty lime ties all the flavors together. Healthy, delicious, and versatile for up to 3 days in the fridge!
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Updated on Wed, 30 Apr 2025 16:14:57 GMT
Southwest Quinoa Bowl Pin it
Southwest Quinoa Bowl | tastefullyrecipe.com

Fluffy quinoa mixed with colorful veggies and tangy lime dressing makes this protein-packed Southwest Quinoa Salad. The combo of crisp ingredients and punchy seasonings turns basic quinoa into an unforgettable meal that's great for both family dinners and fancy get-togethers.

We stumbled upon this dish at a backyard cookout, and it's now our favorite thing to bring to gatherings and prep for weekday lunches. Everyone always wants seconds, even folks who usually don't go for quinoa-based meals, thanks to its amazing texture and taste combo.

Picking Your Ingredients

  • Quinoa: Go with white quinoa if you want something mild that works with everything, or try red quinoa for a crunchier bite with nutty undertones
  • Black Beans: Home-cooked beans give you the nicest texture, but well-rinsed canned ones work great in a pinch
  • Corn: Summer fresh corn can't be beat for sweetness, though frozen kernels stay nice and crunchy all year
  • Bell Peppers: The red ones add just the right sweetness and satisfying crunch plus gorgeous color
  • Green Onions: Look for firm, bright ones to add fresh flavor and make your dish look pretty
  • Cilantro: Pick bunches that are bright green for the strongest flavor and scent

Putting Together Your Southwest Salad

Getting Quinoa Just Right:
Start by washing your quinoa under cold water to get rid of any bitterness. Warm up your pan until you can feel heat when you hold your hand above it, then add a splash of olive oil and some chopped garlic. Let the quinoa toast a bit until you smell that nutty scent. Pour in your veggie broth and bring it to a soft boil before turning down the heat. Cover it and let it drink up all that tasty liquid.
Mixing Up Your Dressing:
Grab a jar and squeeze in fresh lime juice, then pour in some good olive oil. Add a touch of honey for sweetness, and sprinkle in cumin and chili powder for that Southwestern kick. Throw in salt and pepper, then shake it all up until it looks creamy. Give it a taste and tweak until it's just right.
Putting It All Together:
Lay out your cooked quinoa on a big plate and let it cool a bit while you get everything else ready. Mix in your colorful blend of corn, black beans, and fresh veggies. Drizzle your dressing over everything and gently toss so all the flavors get evenly mixed.
Fresh Southwest Quinoa Salad Pin it
Fresh Southwest Quinoa Salad | tastefullyrecipe.com

I grew up in a home where we always ate healthy stuff, so quinoa became my favorite grain. You can use it so many ways and it's packed with nutrients, but this southwestern version with its bold taste and satisfying crunch is definitely the best one I've ever made.

Great Foods To Serve With It

This colorful salad tastes amazing next to some grilled chicken for a protein boost. If you don't eat meat, try it with some roasted portobello mushrooms or crispy tofu. You can even use it as a filling for lettuce cups or stuffed peppers.

Ways To Switch It Up

Make this salad your own by throwing in some diced avocado for creaminess, or add chopped jalapeños if you like heat. Try pinto beans instead of black beans, or toss in some roasted sweet potatoes for extra sweetness and texture. Want something different? Use a lemony dressing instead of lime and swap the cilantro for fresh basil for a Mediterranean twist.

Storage Tricks

Keep your salad in a sealed glass container in the fridge where it'll stay good for about four days. It actually tastes better the next day! Before eating leftovers, let it sit out for 15 minutes and give it a quick stir to mix the dressing back in.

Close-up Southwest Quinoa Salad Recipe Pin it
Close-up Southwest Quinoa Salad Recipe | tastefullyrecipe.com

I've tweaked this recipe for years, and it's now one of my most trusted and flexible dishes. The way the textures and flavors work together makes something that pleases both picky eaters and food lovers. You can serve it as your main dish or on the side, and this Southwest Quinoa Salad always delivers great taste and nutrition, making it a must-have in my cooking rotation.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How long will the quinoa bowl keep in the fridge?
It stays tasty for about 3-4 days if kept in an airtight container in the fridge.
→ Can I get this dish ready in advance?
Totally! It’s perfect for prepping ahead, and the flavors get even better after chilling.
→ Would this bowl work well for lunches?
Yes, absolutely! It holds up great and tastes just as good cold, perfect for lunches.
→ What pairs nicely with this dish?
It's great with grilled chicken or fish, or enjoy it solo topped with guacamole or avocado.
→ Is there a vegan alternative for honey in the dressing?
Sure, swap honey for maple syrup or agave to keep it vegan-friendly.

Southwest Quinoa Bowl

Packed with quinoa, beans, corn, and fresh veggies, this Southwest Quinoa Bowl is tied together with a bold lime dressing for a fresh, protein-rich meal.

Prep Time
15 Minutes
Cook Time
15 Minutes
Total Time
30 Minutes
By: Patricia


Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: American Southwest

Yield: 5 Servings (7.5 cups)

Dietary: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free

Ingredients

→ Salad Base

01 2 chopped garlic cloves, fresh and small
02 A splash (2 teaspoons) of good olive oil
03 1¾ cups water or vegetable broth with less salt
04 Rinse 1 cup quinoa until the water looks clear
05 A can (15 oz) of rinsed and drained black beans
06 1 cup of drained sweet corn kernels from a can
07 4 finely sliced green onions
08 1 diced red bell pepper, in small pieces
09 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh cilantro

→ Lime Dressing

10 Fresh lime juice, about 3 tablespoons (1-2 limes)
11 2 tablespoons of high-quality olive oil
12 1 tablespoon honey for sweetness
13 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
14 A teaspoon of chili powder for a spicy kick
15 A bit of salt and pepper, freshly ground to your taste

→ Optional Add-Ons

16 Either fresh guacamole or sliced avocado

Instructions

Step 01

Heat a medium pot on medium warmth and add the olive oil. Mix in the garlic and let it release its scent for about a minute. Add the clear-rinsed quinoa and your choice of broth or water. Let it reach a boil before reducing the heat, then cover it and allow it to simmer for 12-16 minutes until every drop of liquid is gone. Remove it from heat and leave it to finish setting up.

Step 02

Grab a clean small bowl or jar to combine lime juice, cumin, chili powder, olive oil, and honey. Sprinkle in salt and pepper, then mix everything thoroughly. If you're using a jar, firmly close the lid and give it a good shake until it all comes together.

Step 03

Put the slightly cooled quinoa in a roomy bowl. Add the diced bell pepper, corn, black beans, sliced green onions, and chopped cilantro. Pour the mixed lime dressing on top and gently toss until all ingredients are covered evenly. Try it and tweak seasoning if needed.

Step 04

You can serve it warm or chill it before eating. For a treat, add guacamole or sliced avocado to the top for more flavor.

Notes

  1. This vibrant dish stays fresh for up to 3-4 days when stored in a sealed container in the fridge. It's great for prepping meals ahead of time.

Tools You'll Need

  • A medium pot with a matching lid
  • Big bowl for mixing
  • Jar or small bowl to make the dressing
  • Measuring tools for ingredients

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • May not suit strict vegans because of honey

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 319
  • Total Fat: 11 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 47 g
  • Protein: 11 g