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+ servings

30 Minute Loaded Quinoa Taco Salad

A vibrant and satisfying vegetarian dish featuring quinoa, black beans, and creamy avocado, topped with a zesty Baja dressing.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

  • 1 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil Use high-quality olive oil for enhanced flavor.
  • 3/4 cup chopped red onion Adds sweetness and crunch to the salad.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Infuses the dish with aromatic goodness.
  • 1 Tbsp. adobo sauce (from a can of chipotle chiles) Provides a smoky kick.
  • 1 tsp. chili powder Adds depth and warmth to the flavor profile.
  • 1/2 tsp. ground cumin Complements the other spices beautifully.
  • 1/2 cup dry (uncooked) quinoa The base of the salad packed with protein.
  • 1 cup vegetable broth (sub water) Enhances the quinoa's flavor while cooking.
  • 1/2 tsp. kosher salt Essential for seasoning throughout the recipe.
  • 1 cup canned black beans Rinsed and drained, a hearty source of protein and fiber.
  • 6 to 8 cups chopped romaine (or lettuce of choice) The fresh greens that add volume and crunch.
  • 1/2 cup prepared pico de gallo Freshness in every bite with vibrant flavors.
  • 1 ripe avocado, sliced Creamy texture that balances the other ingredients perfectly.
  • Tortilla chips Optional garnish for added crunch and fun.
  • 1/4 cup plain whole-milk Greek yogurt Creates a creamy dressing base that's tangy and rich.
  • 1/4 cup neutral oil (such as avocado or grapeseed oil) Adds richness to the dressing without overpowering flavors.
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro Brightens up the dressing and adds freshness to the salad.
  • 1 Tbsp. fresh lime or lemon juice A zesty finish that elevates all the flavors in the dish.
  • 2 tsp. apple cider vinegar Introduces a tangy element to the dressing mix.
  • 1 tsp. honey Balances out acidity with natural sweetness.
  • 1/4 tsp. ground cumin Enhances depth in the dressing as well as in the salad itself.
  • 1/4 tsp. kosher salt To season the dressing just right.
  • 1/4 tsp. black pepper To season the dressing just right.

Method
 

  1. Heat 1 Tbsp of olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped red onion and minced garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in adobo sauce, chili powder, and ground cumin; cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Add dry quinoa along with vegetable broth and salt; increase heat until boiling then cover, reduce heat to low, cooking until quinoa is tender and liquid has been absorbed—about 15 minutes total.
  2. Once the quinoa is cooked through, stir in rinsed black beans into the mixture gently allowing it to sit uncovered for a few moments while you prepare other components of your salad.
  3. In a blender or Nutribullet, combine plain Greek yogurt, neutral oil, fresh cilantro, lime juice, apple cider vinegar, honey, ground cumin, kosher salt, and black pepper; blend on high speed until smooth and creamy creating a luscious dressing that will coat your salad beautifully.
  4. In a large bowl or serving platter, add chopped romaine lettuce ensuring it's seasoned lightly with a pinch of kosher salt to enhance its flavor profile before layering on top various ingredients including quinoa-black bean mixture, pico de gallo, sliced avocado creating an eye-catching presentation.
  5. Drizzle your prepared Baja Dressing generously over top of everything ensuring even coverage before gently tossing all components together so every bite gets infused with those amazing flavors.
  6. If desired sprinkle tortilla chips over your gorgeous creation just before serving adding delightful crunchiness that everyone will love—serve immediately!

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 8gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 5gSodium: 200mgFiber: 10gSugar: 5g

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