Looking for a delicious and nutritious salad that’s perfect for any occasion? This Easy Mexican Inspired Three Bean Salad Recipe With Quinoa is a vibrant, flavorful dish that’s sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Packed with protein, fiber, and a medley of colorful veggies, this salad is as healthy as it is tasty. Let’s dive into how you can make this delightful dish at home!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Salad
- Quinoa: This ancient grain is a great source of protein and adds a nice texture to the salad. If you’re out of quinoa, you can substitute with couscous or even bulgur wheat.
- Black Beans: These are a staple in Mexican cuisine. Pinto beans can be a good alternative.
- Romano Beans: Also known as cranberry beans, these can be swapped with white beans or kidney beans.
- Black-Eyed Peas: They add a unique flavor and texture. Chickpeas are a fine substitute if needed.
- Whole Kernel Corn: Adds a sweet crunch to the salad. Fresh, canned, or frozen corn works well.
Veggies
- Cherry Tomatoes: These small, juicy tomatoes bring a burst of flavor. Regular tomatoes, diced, can also be used.
- Mini Peppers: They add color and a slight sweetness. Bell peppers are a suitable substitute.
- Red Onion: Provides a sharp, tangy bite. If you prefer a milder flavor, green onions are a good alternative.
- Avocados: Optional but highly recommended for their creamy texture and healthy fats. If you’re avoiding avocados, you can skip them.
- Cilantro: Adds a fresh, herby flavor. Parsley can be used if you’re not a fan of cilantro.
Dressing
- Olive Oil: A healthy fat that forms the base of the dressing.
- White Vinegar: Adds acidity and balances the flavors. Apple cider vinegar can be used instead.
- Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice gives a zesty kick. Lemon juice can be a substitute.
- Maple Syrup: Adds sweetness. Honey or sugar can be used as alternatives.
- Chili Powder: Adds a bit of heat and depth. Adjust to taste.
- Garlic Powder: Enhances the flavor. Fresh garlic can be used if preferred.
- Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning to taste.
Helpful Tools to Make This Mexican Inspired Three Bean Salad Recipe With Quinoa
To make this easy Mexican inspired three bean salad recipe with quinoa, you’ll need the following tools:
- Medium saucepan for cooking quinoa
- Large mixing bowl
- Small bowl or jar for mixing the dressing
- Sharp knife for chopping veggies
- Cutting board
- Colander for rinsing beans and veggies
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Blender (optional) for the dressing
How to Make This Black Bean Corn Mexican Salad Recipe
Cooking Quinoa
Start by cooking the quinoa according to the package instructions. Once cooked, allow it to cool completely before adding it to the salad. Cooling the quinoa prevents it from making the salad mushy.
Preparing the Dressing
In a small bowl or jar, combine olive oil, white vinegar, lime juice, maple syrup, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Blend until well combined. You can use a blender for a smoother dressing, but whisking by hand works just as well.
Combining Ingredients
In an extra-large salad bowl, add the rinsed and drained black beans, romano beans, black-eyed peas, corn, diced cherry tomatoes, sliced mini peppers, diced red onion, and cooked quinoa. Toss everything together to combine.
Adding Avocado
Gently toss in the cubed avocado if you’re using it. Be careful not to mash the avocado too much.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the salad by itself or with tortilla chips for an added crunch. This salad is versatile and can be enjoyed as a side dish or a main course.
Tips & Tricks
- Make Ahead: This Three Bean Corn Mexican Salad can be made ahead of time. Just keep the dressing and avocado separate until you’re ready to serve.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Add fresh avocado just before serving.
- Customizable: Feel free to add other veggies like cucumbers or radishes. You can also add some shredded chicken or cheese for extra protein.
- Spice Level: Adjust the chili powder to your taste. For more heat, add some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce.
FAQ: Three Bean Salad Recipe
Yes, you can make this salad ahead of time. Just keep the dressing and avocado separate until you’re ready to serve to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.
The salad will keep for up to 3 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. Add fresh avocado before serving.
Absolutely! You can substitute any of the beans with your preferred variety. Pinto beans, chickpeas, or even lentils can work well.
Easy Mexican Inspired Three Bean Salad Recipe With Quinoa
Ingredients
Salad
- ½ cup dry quinoa
- 1 19oz can black beans
- 1 19oz can romano beans (sub white beans or kidney beans if desired)
- 1 19oz can black eyed peas
- 1 12oz can whole kernel corn
Veggies
- 15 cherry tomatoes, diced
- 6-8 mini peppers, sliced
- ½ small red onion, diced
- 2 ripe avocados, cubed (optional)
- ½ bunch cilantro, diced
Dressing
- ½ cup olive oil
- ⅓ cup white vinegar
- 1 lime, juiced (about 2 tbsp lime juice)
- ¼ cup maple syrup (sugar or honey as a substitute)
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Start by cooking the quinoa according to the package insturctions and allow to cool.
- Next, prepare the dressing by blending together olive oil, white vinegar, lime juice, maple syrup, chili powder, garlic powder, salt and pepper. Blend until well combined.
- In an extra large salad bowl, add the rinsed and drained beans, corn, peppers, red onion, cilantro, cherry tomatoes, and cooked quinoa. Toss to comine.
- Gently toss in the cubed avocado if adding.
- Serve by itself or with tortilla chips and enjoy!
Video
Notes
Nutrition
Conclusion: Three Bean Salad Recipe With Quinoa
This Easy Mexican Inspired Three Bean Salad Recipe With Quinoa is a delightful, nutritious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s easy to make, customizable, and packed with flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing. Whether you’re serving it at a barbecue, a potluck, or just as a healthy meal at home, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy!
This bean salad was delicious quick easy and I had everything I needed in the house to make it! Loved it 😍
Thank you so much Kristen! I also love how easy this one is!