Looking for a salad that packs a punch? This spicy quinoa and jalapeno salad is just what you need! It’s not your typical salad – it’s vibrant, fresh, and full of flavor. Featuring protein-packed quinoa and zesty jalapenos, this dish is perfect for those who love a bit of heat in their meals.
This recipe is a fantastic option for meal prep or as a side dish at your next gathering. You can easily customize it to suit your taste by adjusting the spiciness or adding your favorite vegetables. It’s refreshing, filling, and sure to impress anyone sitting at your table.
Preparing the Quinoa Base
To start this refreshing salad, rinsing the quinoa is essential. This step helps remove the natural coating, known as saponin, which can give a bitter taste.
Once rinsed, combine the quinoa with water or vegetable broth in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer. Cooking time is roughly 15 minutes until the quinoa is fluffy and the liquid is absorbed.
Allow the cooked quinoa to cool before mixing it with the other ingredients. This not only enhances the texture but also helps maintain the freshness of the salad.
Mixing Fresh Ingredients
The next step involves combining the vibrant ingredients that will elevate the quinoa. Start with finely chopped jalapeños for that spicy kick. Adjust the amount based on your heat preference.
Adding halved cherry tomatoes, corn, diced red onion, and black beans introduces a variety of textures and flavors. The cherry tomatoes add sweetness, while the black beans contribute protein.
Don’t forget about fresh cilantro! Its bright flavor complements the other ingredients beautifully and adds a refreshing touch to the salad.
Dressing That Packs a Punch
A zesty dressing can really bring this salad together. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
This mixture is key to enhancing the overall flavor profile of the salad. The lime juice adds acidity, balancing the spiciness of the jalapeños and the sweetness from the corn and tomatoes.
Once mixed, pour the dressing over the combined salad ingredients and toss well to ensure everything is coated evenly. Adjust seasoning if needed for a perfect finish.
Serving and Enjoying
This quinoa salad can be served chilled or at room temperature, making it a versatile dish for any occasion. The rustic bowl presentation adds to its appeal, perfect for gatherings or simple weeknight dinners.
For an extra touch, serve with lime wedges on the side. This allows guests to add more brightness to their servings if they choose.
Its vibrant colors and fresh ingredients not only look appealing but also promise a satisfying flavor explosion with every bite.
Nutrition and Variations
This spicy quinoa salad is not just tasty; it’s also nutritious. Each serving contains a healthy balance of calories, protein, and healthy fats.
Feel free to customize this salad with your favorite ingredients! Adding avocado for creaminess or swapping in seasonal vegetables can create delightful variations.
It’s an excellent option for meal prep, ensuring you have a quick, healthy dish ready to go during busy weeks. With its variety of flavors and textures, it’s bound to impress anyone at your table.
Deliciously Spicy Quinoa Salad
This quinoa salad is a delightful mix of fluffy quinoa, crunchy vegetables, and spicy jalapenos. It has a refreshing taste combined with a kick that makes every bite exciting and satisfying.
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1 medium jalapeno, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced
- 1 cup corn (fresh or canned)
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Quinoa: In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa and water/broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until quinoa is fluffy and water is absorbed. Let it cool.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the cooked quinoa, jalapeno, cherry tomatoes, red onion, corn, black beans, and cilantro.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Toss and Serve: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to combine. Adjust seasoning if needed. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 220kcal
- Fat: 8g
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 28g