Delve into a nutritious and flavorful meal with this Quinoa Salad featuring Black Beans and Sweet Mango. This protein-packed dish combines hearty quinoa with the sweetness of fresh mango and the richness of black beans, creating a delightful balance of textures and flavors. Tossed in a zesty lime-cilantro dressing, this salad is perfect for health-conscious food enthusiasts looking for a refreshing and wholesome option. Whether enjoyed as a light lunch, dinner, or meal prep for the week, this vibrant quinoa salad is sure to satisfy your cravings while keeping your nutrition on point.
Ingredients
- Quinoa: 1 cup rinsed
- Black Beans: 1 cup rinsed and drained (canned or cooked)
- Mango: 1 large diced
- Red Bell Pepper: 1 diced
- Red Onion: ¼ cup finely chopped
- Cilantro: ½ cup chopped
- Avocado optional: 1, diced
For the Lime-Cilantro Dressing:
- Olive Oil: ¼ cup
- Lime Juice: 3 tbsp freshly squeezed
- Agave Syrup: 1 tbsp
- Garlic: 1 clove minced
- Fresh Cilantro: 2 tablespoons finely chopped
- Salt & Pepper: To taste
Instructions
- Cook Quinoa: In a medium saucepan, combine the quinoa with 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the quinoa is fluffy. Let it cool to room temperature.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, agave syrup, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, salt and pepper until well combined. Adjust the seasoning according to taste.
- Combine the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, black beans, diced mango, red bell pepper, red onion and chopped cilantro. If using, add the diced avocado to the mix. Gently toss to combine.
- Dress the Salad: Pour the lime-cilantro dressing over the salad and toss gently until everything is well coated. Taste and adjust for seasoning if necessary.
- Chill: Let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This step allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Serve: Serve the salad chilled, garnished with additional cilantro leaves or lime wedges if desired.
Notes
- Serving Suggestion: This salad can be enjoyed on its own as a light meal or as a vibrant side dish to complement your main course.
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