Hearty Cilantro Lime Black Bean Quinoa Bowls
Fresh Mexican-Inspired Ingredients for a Nutritious and Satisfying Meal
Inspired by Mexican cuisine, these Cilantro Lime Black Bean Quinoa Bowls combine protein-rich quinoa, hearty black beans, and zesty lime for a fresh, nourishing dish. Perfect for plant-based eaters, it’s a flavorful, balanced meal packed with fiber, protein, and healthy fats.
Hearty Cilantro Lime Black Bean Quinoa Bowls – Healthy & Vegan Quinoa Bowl Recipe
DifficultyEasy
Servings4
Prep time15 minutes
Cook time20 minutes
Total time35 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Quinoa:
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Black Bean Mix:
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
For the Cilantro Lime Dressing:
- ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oi
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1 teaspoon honey or agave, (optional for sweetness)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1-2 tablespoons water, (to thin the dressing)
For the Bowl Toppings:
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions:
- 1
Cook the Quinoa:
- Rinse the quinoa under cold water to remove any bitterness. In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa and water (or vegetable broth). Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the quinoa is tender and the water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork, then stir in olive oil, lime zest, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
- 2
Prepare the Black Beans:
- In a small saucepan, heat the black beans over medium heat. Add the cumin, chili powder, lime juice, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir occasionally and heat for 5-7 minutes until warm and fragrant. Remove from heat.
- 3
Make the Cilantro Lime Dressing:
- In a blender or food processor, combine chopped cilantro, olive oil, lime juice, honey/agave, salt, and pepper. Add 1-2 tablespoons of water to thin the dressing to your desired consistency. Blend until smooth.
- 4
Assemble the Bowls:
- Divide the cooked quinoa among 4 bowls. Top with black beans, sliced avocado, cherry tomatoes, and red onion. Drizzle with the cilantro lime dressing. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve with lime wedges.
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Small saucepan
- Food processor
- Knife
- Cutting board
Recipe Notes and Variations:
Substitutions:
- For a non-vegan version, you can add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top of the bowls.
- Swap out the black beans for kidney beans or pinto beans for a different flavor profile.
- For a grain-free option, use cauliflower rice instead of quinoa.
Pro Tips:
- Rinse quinoa well before cooking to remove any bitterness or residue.
- If you like your dressing extra zesty, add more lime juice or even a pinch of chili flakes for some extra spice.
- Make this dish ahead of time by prepping the quinoa and beans in advance, then assembling the bowls when you’re ready to eat.
FAQs:
Can I make this recipe in advance?
- Yes! This is a great make-ahead meal. Store the quinoa and black beans separately in the fridge for up to 3 days. Assemble the bowls just before serving.
Can I add protein to this recipe?
- Absolutely! You can add grilled chicken, tofu, or even a boiled egg for extra protein.
Storage & Reheating Instructions:
- Store the leftover quinoa, black beans, and cilantro dressing separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days. To reheat the quinoa and beans, microwave them until hot.
- The cilantro dressing can be stored in the fridge for up to a week.
Nutrition
| Calories | 340 |
| Carbohydrates | 44g |
| Cholesterol | 0mg |
| Fat | 18g |
| Fiber | 12g |
| Protein | 10g |
| Saturated Fat | 2g |
| Sodium | 420mg |
| Sugar | 3g |
| Trans Fat | 0g |
| Unsaturated Fat | 16g |
History, Evolution, and Inspiration
Hearty Cilantro Lime Black Bean Quinoa Bowls are inspired by the vibrant, fresh flavors of Mexican cuisine, a cuisine known for its use of beans, lime, and cilantro. This particular bowl combines the goodness of quinoa, often considered a superfood for its high protein content, with black beans, a staple in Mexican cooking. Over time, these bowls have become a popular dish for those seeking healthy, easy-to-make meals that pack a punch in flavor. As more people focus on plant-based meals, this bowl offers the perfect balance of protein, fiber, and healthy fats.
The Art of Cooking Parts of the Recipe
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. The cilantro lime quinoa provides a fresh, aromatic base, while the black beans add depth and earthiness. The cilantro lime dressing ties everything together with a tangy, creamy finish that elevates each bite. This bowl is customizable and adaptable, making it an easy option for a quick weeknight dinner or a nutritious lunch bowl. The key is balancing the flavors—freshness from the lime, richness from the avocado, and the spices from the beans.
Interesting Things About the Recipe
This vegan quinoa bowl can be enjoyed warm or cold, making it perfect for meal prepping and enjoying throughout the week. With minimal cooking and a short prep time, it’s a fast and healthy meal that can be customized to your taste. Whether you’re a vegetarian or looking for a quick quinoa meal, this bowl is packed with flavor and nutrients. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy quinoa in a new and exciting way!
Overview of the Parts of the Recipe
- Quinoa: The base of the bowl, flavored with lime and olive oil for a fresh kick.
- Black Beans: Warmed and seasoned with cumin, chili powder, and lime for an extra layer of flavor.
- Toppings: Avocado, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and fresh cilantro add texture, color, and nutrition.
- Cilantro Lime Dressing: A creamy, zesty dressing that brings the entire bowl together.
What Occasions It’s Good For
- Healthy lunch bowls: Perfect for a balanced, satisfying lunch.
- Meal prep: A great make-ahead meal for the week.
- Vegetarian or vegan meals: A nutrient-packed, plant-based option.
- Quick meals: Ready in under 40 minutes for a fast and healthy dinner.
Why It’s the Perfect Recipe
This recipe is perfect because it’s not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. The cilantro lime quinoa offers a fresh and hearty base, while the black beans provide a boost of protein. With customizable toppings, this healthy quinoa bowl can be adjusted to suit your taste and dietary preferences. Whether you’re looking for a vegetarian quinoa bowl or a quick quinoa meal, this recipe fits the bill. It’s nutritious, vibrant, and packed with flavor!
