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Quinoa Black Bean Burrito Bowls Recipe

4.5 from 140 reviews

This Quinoa Black Bean Burrito Bowl is a nutritious and flavorful meal that combines protein-packed quinoa and black beans with fresh vegetables and zesty seasonings. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, it’s customizable with various toppings like cheese, avocado, and salsa to suit your taste.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup quinoa
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/4 cup minced onion
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 30 ounces cooked black beans (or 2 cans, drained and rinsed)
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1/4 teaspoon mild chili powder
  • Pinch cayenne pepper
  • 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
  • 1 cup shredded lettuce
  • Salt, to taste

Optional Toppings

  • Grated cheddar or jack cheese
  • Sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • Pico de gallo or salsa
  • Diced seeded tomatoes
  • Hot sauce or sriracha
  • Sliced avocado
  • Guacamole
  • Corn

Instructions

  1. Cook the quinoa: Rinse the quinoa thoroughly under cold water to remove any bitterness. Add quinoa to a pot with 2 cups of water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for about 15 minutes until the water is absorbed and quinoa is fluffy. Set aside to cool slightly.
  2. Sauté aromatics: While quinoa cooks, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
  3. Add beans and seasoning: Add the cooked black beans to the skillet with onions and garlic. Stir in chili powder, cayenne pepper, salt to taste, and fresh lime juice. Cook for 4-5 minutes to heat through and let the flavors combine. Remove from heat and stir in chopped cilantro.
  4. Assemble the burrito bowl: In serving bowls, layer the cooked quinoa, seasoned black beans mixture, and shredded lettuce. Add your choice of optional toppings such as cheese, sour cream or Greek yogurt, pico de gallo, diced tomatoes, hot sauce, sliced avocado, guacamole, and corn to enhance flavor and texture.
  5. Serve and enjoy: Serve the burrito bowls warm, making sure each bowl is balanced with grains, protein, fresh veggies, and your favorite toppings for a satisfying and healthy meal.

Notes

  • You can substitute quinoa with rice if preferred; cook according to package instructions.
  • Adjust the level of cayenne pepper to control the spiciness.
  • Black beans can be canned or homemade; if using canned, rinse thoroughly to reduce sodium.
  • To keep this dish vegan, omit cheese and sour cream or use plant-based alternatives.
  • Make ahead by preparing quinoa and beans in advance, then assemble just before serving.

Keywords: quinoa, black beans, burrito bowl, vegetarian, healthy, Mexican, easy recipe, meal prep