Go Back
Homemade Skinny Quinoa with Black Beans recipe photo

Skinny Quinoa with Black Beans

A light, protein-packed quinoa skillet with black beans and tomatoes for an easy weeknight meal.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 sweet onion medium, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 3/4 cup quinoa uncooked, rinsed (red or white)
  • 15 ounces black beans canned, low sodium preferred, drained and rinsed
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes more or less to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • kosher or sea salt to taste
  • 4 1/2 ounces diced green chiles canned
  • 10 ounces diced tomatoes canned
  • 1/2 cup cilantro freshly chopped
  • 1 3/4 cup vegetable broth low sodium

Equipment

  • Large skillet with lid
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Colander

Method
 

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat.
  2. Add the diced onion and sauté until tender, about 4 minutes.
  3. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more, stirring so it doesn't brown.
  4. Stir in the rinsed quinoa, drained black beans, chili powder, cumin, crushed red pepper flakes, black pepper, canned green chiles, canned diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth.
  5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a low simmer and cover.
  6. Cook for 15–20 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the quinoa is tender.
  7. Remove from heat, keep covered, and let sit 5 minutes.
  8. Fluff the quinoa with a fork or large spoon, stir in the chopped cilantro, adjust salt to taste, and serve.

Notes

  • Rinse quinoa well to remove bitterness before cooking.
  • Use low-sodium broth and beans to control salt.
  • Adjust crushed red pepper to control heat.
  • Letting it rest helps the quinoa finish steaming.