Zesty Quinoa Salad

This bright and colorful salad is a great summertime recipe (or anytime you want to feel like it's summertime). Light and citrusy, it's a whole new way to enjoy quinoa. Lime juice and cilantro give a refreshing kick, while quinoa and black beans provide tasty vegan protein. If you're not vegan, add even more protein by adding chunks of chicken or turkey. Yum!

Zesty Quinoa Salad

Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients:

• 1 cup quinoa
• 2 cups water
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 limes, juiced
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes, or more to taste
• 1 1/2 cups halved cherry tomatoes
• 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 5 green onions, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• salt and ground black pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Bring quinoa and water to a boil in a saucepan. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer until quinoa is tender and water has been absorbed, 10 to 15 minutes. Set aside to cool.
2. Whisk olive oil, lime juice, cumin, 1 teaspoon salt, and red pepper flakes together in a bowl.
3. Combine quinoa, tomatoes, black beans, and green onions together in a bowl. Pour dressing over quinoa mixture; toss to coat. Stir in cilantro; season with salt and black pepper. Serve immediately or chill in refrigerator.