Southwest Quinoa Salad Recipe

This is the Southwest Quinoa Salad, a colorful and healthy dish that takes the flavors of Southwestern cuisine and combines them with all of the nutritional benefits you get from quinoa. It’s something that can be put together quickly, making it perfect for meal prep or weeknight dinners, but is also hearty enough to serve as a main course at any gathering. With black beans, corn, and avocado among its ingredients, this salad has plenty of protein, fiber and healthy fats to keep you full until your next meal – not to mention how delicious it tastes!

Southwest Quinoa Salad Recipe Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups cooked quinoa
• 1/2 can (8oz) low sodium black beans, drained
• 3/4 cup frozen corn, thawed
• 1 large ripe avocado, diced
• 4 tablespoons green salsa (use your favorite store-bought or homemade salsa)
• Optional Garnish: chopped cilantro, sliced Fresno pepper
• Sea salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Quinoa Southwest Salad

Cook The Quinoa: If you haven’t cooked your quinoa yet (I usually have some in my fridge already), rinse it under cold water first to remove any bitterness. Then cook according to package instructions and set aside to cool.

Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl combine cooked quinoa with drained black beans; thawed corn; diced avocado.

Add Salsa: Pour green salsa over top which will act as dressing for your salad – gently toss everything together so all ingredients get coated with salsa.

Season + Garnish: Taste the salad then season with sea salt + freshly cracked pepper if needed – garnish optional cilantro + Fresno pepper adds extra flavor & color too!

Serve And Enjoy! Your Southwest Quinoa Salad is ready! You can eat it immediately as a side dish or chill in the fridge until ready to serve.

Southwest Quinoa Salad Recipe Variations

Add Protein: You can also add grilled chicken, shrimp or tofu for more filling protein options – these pair really well with the southwest flavors.

Cheese Lovers: If you love cheese, sprinkle some crumbled cotija or feta on top – adds a creamy tangy touch!

Extra Veggies: Chopped bell peppers; red onion; cherry tomatoes will give an extra crunch + nutrition boost too.

Spice It Up: Dice jalapeños into the salad for spicier kick – also try adding dash of hot sauce if desired!

Different Grains: While quinoa is star of show here, feel free to experiment with other grains like brown rice; farro; bulgur etc., they all work great and provide different texture.

Southwest Quinoa Salad Serving Suggestions

As A Side Dish: This salad goes really well with grilled meats such as chicken; steak; pork chops even fish or seafood!

In A Wrap: Use this as filling in whole wheat wrap/tortilla then add leafy greens + dollop Greek yogurt/sour cream delicious lunch option!

On A Bed Of Greens: Serve over mixed greens/romaine lettuce for heartier salad option.

Topped With Eggs: Poach/fry egg on top for nutritious breakfast/brunch too!

Storage Instructions for Quinoa Southwest Salad

It is a good idea to store this Southwest Quinoa Salad because it keeps well. Use an airtight container for leftovers and keep them in the fridge. They will be fine for 4-6 days. The taste will improve as the flavors blend together so it will become tastier tomorrow. If you’re planning to store the salad, consider adding the avocado just before serving to prevent it from browning. For an easy lunch or dinner, simply scoop out a portion and enjoy it chilled or at room temperature.