High-Protein Quinoa and Black Bean Power Bowl

By AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-06-26 · Updated 2026-06-26

A nutrient-dense bowl combining protein-packed quinoa and black beans with fresh vegetables and a zesty lime dressing. This Mexican-inspired healthy bowl recipe (high protein, vegetarian), ready in about 30 minutes, pairs quinoa, water, black beans for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 350 calories and feeds 4, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with rice, quinoa, or a quick salad. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa
• 2 cups water
• 1 can (15 oz), drained and rinsed black beans
• 1 medium, diced red bell pepper
• 1 cup, fresh or frozen corn kernels
• 1 medium, diced avocado
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 3 tbsp lime juice
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

The chef’s knife we’d prep this with → Best Chef's Knives for 2026: Top Picks + Buying Guide

Instructions

1. Step 1: Rinse 1 cup quinoa under cold water until water runs clear. In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa and 2 cups water, bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to low and cover. Simmer for 15 minutes until water is absorbed and quinoa is fluffy. Remove from heat and let sit covered for 5 minutes.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, 1 can (15 oz) drained and rinsed black beans, 1 diced medium red bell pepper, 1 cup corn kernels, 1 diced medium avocado, and 1/4 cup chopped cilantro.
3. Step 3: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tbsp lime juice, 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper until well combined and slightly thickened.
4. Step 4: Pour the lime dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly. Serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes for flavors to meld.