This is “one of those recipes.” I’ve been making it for years- for myself, for friends, for potlucks, for meal prep… I come back to this recipe again and again because it’s a) easy; b) delicious, and c) so nutritious and healthy! Spicy quinoa and black beans is the ultimate healthy yet satisfying (and scrumptious!) dish. And it’s a really easy, one-pot meal! It’s vegan but will appeal to meat-eaters in its heartiness, and it’s packed with nutrient-rich quinoa, vegetables, beans, and tons of flavor. This recipe is great on its own, but it’s also delicious rolled into a burrito or topped with fixings such as avocado and sour cream.
Ingredients and Substitutions
Quinoa – I like using white quinoa because it has a lighter, fluffier texture and cooks faster. You can use tri-color or another color quinoa if you like. You can also substitute the quinoa with rice or orzo- just keep an eye on how much you should adjust the liquid.Black beans – two small cans or one large can, or about 3 cups cooked beans total. You can use pinto beans or a combo as a substitute.Red bell pepper – the flavor of red is the sweetest, but any color can be used. You can also add a jalapeño in addition to the bell pepper to make the recipe spicier.Garlic and Onion – add 1 teaspoon garlic powder with the other spices if you don’t have fresh.CuminCayenne pepper – this recipe isn’t too spicy, but you can still omit this for a very mild version.Vegetable broth – water can be used in a pinch, or chicken broth if you don’t need it to be vegan/vegetarian.Frozen corn – or fresh, if you prefer.Fresh cilantro – can be omitted if you don’t like cilantro.Pantry basics: olive oil, kosher salt, and black pepper
How to make quinoa with black beans
Can I store leftovers/make ahead?
This recipe stays great as leftovers in the fridge for 3-5 days in an airtight container! This makes it great for meal prep. You can also double the recipe and eat it for dinner, then save leftovers to wrap in burritos or take for lunches later in the week
Suggested fixings for topping
This black beans and quinoa is delicious on its own. I also like serving quinoa and black bean bowls topped with fixings, such as:
Sour creamHot sauceDiced avocadoExtra cilantroLime wedgesShredded cheese
What kind of deep skillet should I use?
Other easy black bean recipes
15-minute Black Beans and RiceSweet Potato and Black Bean EnchiladasChicken Stew with Sweet Potatoes and Black BeansTurkey Enchiladas with Black Beans and Corn
Other easy one-pot recipes
Cheesy Taco PastaPasta with Sausage and SpinachTurkey Sausage and RiceOrzo with Mushrooms
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