One skillet Mexican quinoa is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines the protein-rich goodness of quinoa with the bold flavors of Mexican cuisine. This dish is not only delicious but also easy to make, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want a nutritious meal without a lot of fuss. Plus, it’s a great way to incorporate more plant-based protein into your diet. Whether you’re a vegetarian looking for a new recipe or just looking to add more variety to your meals, this one skillet Mexican quinoa is sure to please.
Ingredients for One Skillet Mexican Quinoa
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Juice of 1 lime
- Optional toppings: avocado, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, sour cream, sliced green onions
How to Make One Skillet Mexican Quinoa
- Saute the Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion, red bell pepper, and jalapeño. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the Garlic and Quinoa: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant. Stir in the quinoa and cook for another minute.
- Add the Beans, Tomatoes, and Spices: Add the black beans, diced tomatoes (with their juices), vegetable broth, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and cook for about 20 minutes, or until the quinoa is cooked through and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the chopped cilantro and lime juice. Taste and adjust the seasoning, if necessary. Serve the one skillet Mexican quinoa hot, with your choice of toppings.
About the Main Ingredients
Quinoa: Quinoa is a nutritious grain that is rich in protein, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals. It has a slightly nutty flavor and a fluffy texture, making it a great base for this dish.
Black Beans: Black beans are an excellent source of protein and fiber. They add heartiness to the dish and pair perfectly with the other flavors.
Vegetables: Onion, red bell pepper, jalapeño, and garlic add flavor, color, and nutrients to the dish. They also provide a nice contrast in texture to the quinoa and beans.
Tomatoes: Diced tomatoes add moisture and acidity to the dish, helping to create a flavorful sauce.
Spices: Chili powder, cumin, and paprika add warmth and depth of flavor to the dish, giving it that classic Mexican flair.
This one skillet Mexican quinoa is a versatile and satisfying dish that is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. Enjoy it on its own or as a filling for tacos or burritos!
