Description
These Quinoa Black Bean Burrito Bowls are a vibrant and nutritious meal combining protein-packed quinoa, flavorful black beans, fresh vegetables, and zesty seasonings. Easy to prepare and customizable with lots of delicious toppings, this bowl is perfect for a wholesome lunch or dinner that satisfies your cravings while being budget-friendly.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup minced onion
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 30 ounces cooked black beans (about 2 cans, drained and rinsed)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon mild chili powder
- Pinch of cayenne pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- Salt, to taste
Optional Toppings
- Grated cheddar or jack cheese
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Pico de gallo or salsa
- Diced seeded tomatoes
- Hot sauce or sriracha
- Sliced avocado
- Guacamole
- Corn
Instructions
- Cook the Quinoa: Rinse 1 cup of quinoa thoroughly under cold water. In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa with 2 cups of water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is tender and water is absorbed. Remove from heat and fluff with a fork.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: While quinoa cooks, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add 1/4 cup minced onion and 1 minced garlic clove. Sauté for about 3-5 minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant.
- Add Beans and Seasonings: To the skillet, add 30 ounces of cooked and drained black beans, 1/4 teaspoon chili powder, a pinch of cayenne pepper, and salt to taste. Stir everything to combine and cook for 5-7 minutes until the beans are heated through and seasoned well.
- Mix in Cilantro and Lime: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in 1/4 cup of fresh chopped cilantro and 1/4 cup fresh lime juice. This will brighten the flavors and add a fresh dimension to the beans.
- Assemble the Bowls: In serving bowls, start by placing a bed of cooked quinoa, then top it with the seasoned black bean mixture. Add 1 cup shredded lettuce on top or on the side.
- Add Optional Toppings: Customize your burrito bowls with desired optional toppings such as grated cheddar or jack cheese, sour cream or Greek yogurt, pico de gallo or salsa, diced tomatoes, hot sauce or sriracha, sliced avocado, guacamole, and corn to enhance flavor and texture.
- Serve: Serve immediately while warm, or chill if preferred. Enjoy your nutritious and delicious quinoa black bean burrito bowl!
Notes
- For a more budget-friendly alternative, substitute quinoa with an equal amount of rice cooked according to package instructions.
- Adjust the chili powder and cayenne pepper amounts to your preferred spice level.
- Leftover bowls can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently before serving.
- To make this recipe vegan, use plant-based yogurt instead of sour cream if desired.
- Adding fresh corn kernels adds sweetness and texture; canned or frozen corn works well.
Keywords: Quinoa, Black Beans, Burrito Bowls, Vegetarian, Mexican-inspired, Healthy, Quick Dinner, Budget-friendly