Fluffy quinoa, black beans, and fresh veggies tossed in a tangy poppy seed dressing for vibrant, wholesome salads.
# What You Need:
→ Grains & Legumes
01 - 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
02 - 2 cups water
03 - 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
→ Vegetables
04 - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
05 - 1 cup yellow bell pepper, diced
06 - 1 cup cucumber, diced
07 - 1/2 cup red onion, finely diced
08 - 1 cup baby spinach, roughly chopped
09 - 1/4 cup fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
→ Dressing
10 - 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
11 - 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
12 - 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
13 - 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
14 - 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
15 - 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
16 - 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
17 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
→ Optional Toppings
18 - 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (omit for vegan)
19 - 1 ripe avocado, sliced
# Steps:
01 - In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 12 to 15 minutes until water is absorbed and quinoa is fluffy. Remove from heat, fluff with a fork, and let cool slightly.
02 - In a large bowl, mix cooked quinoa, black beans, cherry tomatoes, yellow bell pepper, cucumber, red onion, spinach, and cilantro or parsley.
03 - In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey or maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, poppy seeds, sea salt, and black pepper until fully combined.
04 - Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to evenly coat. Adjust seasoning as desired.
05 - If desired, top with crumbled feta and sliced avocado. Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
