Description
This one-pan Mexican quinoa is a flavorful, protein-rich dish made with black beans, corn, tomatoes, and fragrant spices. Easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights, it offers a nutritious and satisfying vegetarian meal that comes together quickly in a single skillet.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup uncooked quinoa, rinsed
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup chopped cilantro
- Juice of 1 lime
Instructions
- Heat the oil: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm 2 teaspoons of olive oil until shimmering, creating the base for sauteing your vegetables.
- Sauté onion and bell pepper: Add the diced onion and bell pepper to the skillet, cooking until they soften and become fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until aromatic, taking care not to burn it.
- Combine remaining ingredients: Stir in the rinsed quinoa, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with juices, vegetable broth, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Cook the quinoa: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer gently for 20 minutes, or until the quinoa is tender and has absorbed the liquid.
- Rest and fluff: Remove the skillet from heat and let it stand, covered, for 5 minutes. This allows the quinoa to finish steaming and results in a fluffier texture.
- Add finishing touches: Fluff the quinoa with a fork to separate the grains. Stir in the chopped cilantro and fresh lime juice to brighten the flavors right before serving.
Notes
- Top with sliced avocado, shredded cheese, or a dollop of Greek yogurt for added creaminess and flavor.
- This dish is excellent for meal prep and freezes well for quick future meals.
- Adjust the spice level by adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper if you prefer more heat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
