Description
This vibrant Black Bean & Quinoa Bowl with Guacamole and Veggies is a nutritious and flavorful vegan meal inspired by Mexican cuisine. Combining protein-packed quinoa and black beans with fresh vegetables and creamy homemade guacamole, this bowl is perfect for meal prep, lunch, or a light dinner. It’s gluten-free, packed with fiber and healthy fats, and easy to make with simple stovetop cooking.
Ingredients
Scale
Quinoa Bowl Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa (rinsed)
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans (drained and rinsed)
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or thawed from frozen)
- 1 red bell pepper (diced)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1/4 cup red onion (finely diced)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (chopped)
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Guacamole Ingredients
- 1 avocado (mashed)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Quinoa: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and water or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the saucepan and let it simmer for 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is fluffy and the liquid is fully absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes. Fluff the quinoa with a fork and set aside.
- Prepare the Guacamole: In a small bowl, mash the avocado with a fork until smooth but still slightly chunky. Add the lime juice, chopped cilantro, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. Mix well to combine all the flavors into a creamy guacamole.
- Assemble the Bowl: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, black beans, corn kernels, diced red bell pepper, halved cherry tomatoes, finely diced red onion, and chopped fresh cilantro. Drizzle with olive oil and the juice of one lime. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Gently toss all the ingredients together until evenly mixed.
- Serve: Divide the quinoa mixture into serving bowls. Top each bowl with a generous scoop of the freshly made guacamole. Serve immediately either warm or chilled for a refreshing and wholesome meal.
Notes
- Add sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick if you like extra heat.
- Top with a fried egg for added protein and richness.
- This bowl is fantastic served warm or cold—perfect for meal prep and packed lunches.
