Step-by-Step Instructions
- Rinse the quinoa. Add quinoa to a fine mesh strainer and rinse under cold water for about 30 seconds. Drain well.
- Sauté the aromatics. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and bell pepper. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes, until slightly softened.
- Add garlic and spices. Stir in garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
- Add the main ingredients. Stir in rinsed quinoa, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth.
- Simmer. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the quinoa is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Rest the quinoa. Turn off the heat and let the pot sit covered for 5 minutes. This helps the quinoa finish steaming.
- Fluff and finish. Fluff with a fork, then stir in lime juice and fresh cilantro.
- Taste and adjust. Add more salt, lime juice, chili powder, or cumin if needed.
- Serve warm. Spoon into bowls and top with avocado, salsa, Greek yogurt, cheese, jalapeños, green onions, or crushed tortilla chips.
Pro Tip: Do not stir too much while the quinoa simmers. Let it cook covered so it absorbs the liquid evenly.
Texture Tip: If the quinoa looks too wet after cooking, remove the lid and let it sit for a few minutes. If it looks too dry before it is tender, add a small splash of broth.
Healthy Tips & Daily Wellness
This one pot Mexican quinoa recipe is a simple way to build a balanced vegetarian meal with protein, fiber, color, and flavor in one bowl.
For more protein, add extra black beans, pinto beans, chickpeas, tofu crumbles, grilled chicken, turkey taco meat, or a spoonful of Greek yogurt on top.
For more vegetables, add zucchini, spinach, kale, diced carrots, mushrooms, extra bell peppers, roasted sweet potatoes, or shredded cabbage.
For a lighter bowl, top with avocado, cilantro, lime, salsa, and Greek yogurt. For a heartier dinner, serve with tortilla chips, cheese, roasted sweet potatoes, or a side salad.
