Spicy Red Quinoa Salad is a delightful and vibrant dish that brings a touch of elegance and excitement to any occasion. This tasty recipe transforms nutritious red quinoa into a spicy and festive salad, perfect for celebrations or a special meal.
To create this delicious dish, simply cook red quinoa until fluffy and mix it with a variety of fresh vegetables, black beans, and a zesty lime dressing. Add a kick of spice with jalapeños or chili flakes for an extra burst of flavor. The result is a beautiful and delicious salad that’s sure to be loved by everyone.
Ideal for parties or a refreshing lunch, this recipe is easy to make and offers a unique flavor. Each bite contains the nutty taste of quinoa with health benefits just like our Butternut Squash Beet Salad and Mediterranean Bean Salad. Taste the joy of spicy red quinoa salad and add a new touch to your salad recipes.
Overview: How To Make Spicy Red Quinoa Salad?
Step 1: Prepare the Quinoa
Cook the quinoa according to package instructions until fluffy and tender.
Step 2: Whisk the Dressing
Combine your desired ingredients to create a flavorful dressing that will enhance the salad.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
Mix the cooked quinoa with diced tomatoes, black beans, and green onions, then toss with the dressing and incorporate any remaining ingredients.
Why You Will Love This Recipe?
You’ll love this Spicy Red Quinoa Salad for its vibrant flavors and colorful presentation. The combination of nutty quinoa, fresh vegetables, and a zesty dressing creates a delightful balance that tantalizes your taste buds.
Each bite offers a satisfying crunch and a burst of brightness, making it a refreshing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
Whether you want to add extra veggies, swap out the beans, or spice it up with jalapeños, the possibilities are endless. This adaptability means you can enjoy a different version of the salad each time you make it, keeping things exciting in the kitchen.
Another reason to love this salad is its nutritional value. Packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, it’s a wholesome choice that will leave you feeling satisfied without weighing you down.
Spicy Red Quinoa Salad
Equipment
- Saucepan
- Large mixing bowl
Ingredients
- salt and ground black pepper to taste
- 2 cups water
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 5 green onions, finely chopped
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1½ cup halved cherry tomatoes
- 1 cup quinoa
- ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes, or more to taste
- 2 lime juiced
Instructions
- In a saucepan, bring water and quinoa to a boil.
- Once boiling, lower the heat to medium-low, cover, and let it simmer for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is cooked and the water is absorbed.
- Allow it to cool.
- While the quinoa is cooling, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, cumin, salt, and red pepper flakes in a small bowl to create the dressing.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled quinoa with diced tomatoes, black beans, and chopped green onions.
- Drizzle the dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss everything to combine.
- Add chopped cilantro, then season with additional salt and black pepper to taste.
Notes
- This salad is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the quinoa and dressing ahead of time, then mix in the fresh ingredients right before serving to maintain their crispness.
- For added flavor, consider marinating the black beans in lime juice and spices before mixing them into the salad, or roasting the tomatoes for a deeper taste.
Nutrition Facts:
| Nutrition | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 270 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 34 g |
| Protein | 9 g |
| Vitamin C | 15 mg |
| Iron | 2 mg |
| Sugar | 2 g |
| Calcium | 51 mg |
Helpful Tips For You
- Rinse the Quinoa: Before cooking, rinse the quinoa under cold water to remove its natural coating, called saponin, which can give it a bitter taste.
- Customize the Dressing: Feel free to adjust the dressing ingredients to suit your taste. Add more lime juice for acidity or extra cheese which makes the salad taste as good as Italian Tomato Salad With Mozzarella.
- Add Extra Vegetables: Incorporate additional vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or avocado for added flavor and nutrition.
- Chill Before Serving: For the best flavor, let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving, allowing the ingredients to meld together.
What to Serve With Spicy Red Quinoa Salad?
- Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup
- Carne Asada Street Tacos
- Grilled Lemon Pepper Chicken
- Tzatziki Sauce
- Thai Chicken Wrap
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use a different type of quinoa?
Yes, you can use white or black quinoa if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for different quinoa varieties.
Is this salad suitable for a vegan diet?
Absolutely! The salad is naturally vegan. Just ensure the dressing and any additional ingredients, like cheese, are vegan-friendly if included.
How can I make this salad spicier?
To increase the heat, add extra red pepper flakes, or incorporate finely chopped jalapeños or hot sauce into the dressing for a spicier kick.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, the salad can be made ahead. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and add fresh ingredients like avocado just before serving to maintain texture.
What can I substitute for black beans?
You can replace black beans with chickpeas, kidney beans, or even diced grilled chicken for a different protein source.