08/25/2026
Packed with plant-based protein, vibrant crunch, and a zesty lime dressing, this Southwest Quinoa Salad is the ultimate easy meal-prep recipe for busy weekdays.
Prep time: 15 mins | Cook time: 15 mins | Servings:4–6
**Ingredients**
Base: 1 cup uncooked quinoa (rinsed), 2 cups water or vegetable broth, 1 tsp salt
Veggies & Beans: 1 can (15 oz) black beans (drained and rinsed), 1 cup sweet corn (fresh, canned, or thawed), 1 red bell pepper (diced), 1/2 red onion (finely diced), 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved), 1 avocado (diced)
Herbs: 1/2 cup fresh cilantro (chopped)
Dressing: 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, juice of 2 fresh limes, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1/2 tsp chili powder, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, salt and fresh black pepper to taste
**Instructions**
1. **Cook the Quinoa:** Combine rinsed quinoa, water/broth, and salt in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 15 minutes. Remove from heat and let sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and let cool completely.
2. **Make the Dressing:** Whisk together olive oil, lime juice, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until blended.
3. **Assemble:** In a large bowl, combine cooled quinoa, black beans, corn, red bell pepper, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and cilantro.
4. **Toss & Serve:** Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to coat. Gently fold in the diced avocado just before serving.
**Meal Prep Pro-Tips**
* **Avocado Storage:** If prepping for the whole week, keep the avocado separate and slice it right before eating to prevent browning.
* **Flavor Boost:** Let the assembled salad chill in the fridge for 30 minutes before serving so the quinoa absorbs the lime dressing. Keeps well stored in airtight containers for up to 4 days.