Mexican Quinoa Salad
This fresh and filling Mexican quinoa salad is loaded with black beans, corn, avocado, and a creamy cilantro dressing. A plant-based meal ready in under 30 minutes!
8 people
Calories: 549kcal
Ingredients
For the salad:
- 1 cup quinoa rinsed
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1 cup black beans cooked or canned, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels frozen, fresh, or canned
- 1 cup hominy maíz pozolero, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup diced tomatoes Roma, cherry, or grape
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1 jalapeño or serrano minced (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- Juice of 2 limes
- 1 ripe avocado diced
- 1/4 cup pepitas pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds
Optional
- 2–3 tablespoons olive oil
- Pinch of sea salt and black pepper to taste
- Creamy cilantro dressing for serving
Instructions
Cook the quinoa:
- In a large pot, combine quinoa and water (or broth). Bring to a boil, then cover and simmer on low heat for 12–15 minutes, or until water is absorbed and quinoa is fluffy. Fluff with a fork and let cool for 5–10 minutes.
- Make the pico-style base:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the red onion, tomatoes, jalapeño, lime juice, and cilantro.
Assemble the salad:
- To the bowl, add the cooled quinoa, black beans, corn, and hominy. Drizzle with olive oil and mix gently.
Add toppings:
- Fold in diced avocado and sprinkle with pepitas. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or more lime juice as needed.
Serve:
- Drizzle with creamy cilantro dressing and serve immediately. Enjoy warm or chilled!
Notes
Storage: Keep leftovers in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Add avocado and dressing just before serving to keep it fresh.
Make ahead: Cook quinoa in advance and chill it to save time.
Variations: Add mango for sweetness, bell pepper for crunch, or substitute quinoa with brown rice or farro.
Nutrition
Serving: 1cup | Calories: 549kcal | Carbohydrates: 49g | Protein: 12g | Fat: 36g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 6g | Monounsaturated Fat: 24g | Trans Fat: 1g | Sodium: 387mg | Potassium: 677mg | Fiber: 10g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 320IU | Vitamin C: 18mg | Calcium: 55mg | Iron: 4mg