Quinoa and Black Bean Salad
Quinoa and Black Bean Salad: Quinoa is a complete protein, making it a great choice for vegetarians. When combined with black beans, this salad is a protein-packed meal. Beans and quinoa carry many similar properties. Beans are packed full of fiber and protein and are great for digestion and fighting heart disease among other benefits. When working in tandem, there is no better preventative against heart disease and sources of fiber and protein out there.
Here is a recipe for quinoa and black bean salad:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups water
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed.
- 1 red bell pepper, diced.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved.
- 1/2 cup diced red onion.
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, minced.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Quinoa and Black Bean Salad–Instructions:
- Rinse the quinoa in a fine mesh strainer and add it to a saucepan with the water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, until the water is absorbed, and the quinoa is tender, about 15 minutes.
- Remove the pan from the heat and let the quinoa sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff the quinoa with a fork and let it cool to room temperature.
- In a large bowl, combine the quinoa, black beans, bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss to coat.
- Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Nutritional Value of Quinoa and Black Bean Salad
Per 1 Serving: 458 calories; protein 13.8g; carbohydrates 46.5g; dietary fiber 9.6g; sugars 6.9g; fat 26g; saturated fat 5.6g; cholesterol 15mg; vitamin a iu 784.7IU; vitamin c 18.1mg; folate 101.2mcg; calcium 204mg; iron 3.5mg; magnesium 135.9mg; potassium 745.9mg; sodium 440.1mg; thiamin 0.3mg.
Quinoa and black bean salad is a nutritious and delicious dish that is perfect for a healthy meal. Both quinoa and black beans are high in protein and fiber, making them a great source of sustained energy and satiety. The dish is also packed with other nutrient-dense ingredients like fresh vegetables and herbs, which provide a variety of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support overall health and well-being. Quinoa and black bean salad is versatile and can be customized to suit individual tastes and preferences. For example, you can add more spices, herbs, or vegetables to enhance the flavor and nutritional value. Overall, quinoa and black bean salad is a healthy and tasty dish that is easy to make and perfect for anyone who wants to maintain a healthy and balanced diet.