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In the world of healthy eating, salads often take center stage, but not all salads are created equal. The Peppery Cajun Quinoa Salad stands out as a vibrant and nutritious option, perfectly suited for lunch or dinner. Bursting with colors and flavors, this dish combines the warm spice of Cajun seasoning with the creamy richness of avocado. The result is a tantalizing salad that not only satisfies the palate but also nourishes the body.

Peppery Cajun Quinoa Salad

Discover the vibrant and delicious Peppery Cajun Quinoa Salad, perfect for any meal of the day. This nutritious dish combines fluffy quinoa, fresh vegetables, and black beans, all seasoned with flavorful Cajun spices and creamy avocado. Rich in protein and dietary fiber, it’s ideal for vegetarians and anyone looking to add healthy options to their diet. Great for meal prep, this salad remains fresh all week, making healthy eating easy and exciting!
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Ingredients
  

1 cup quinoa, rinsed

2 cups vegetable broth or water

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 red bell pepper, diced

1/2 cup corn (fresh or frozen)

1/2 cup black beans, rinsed and drained

1 small red onion, finely chopped

2 green onions, sliced

1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

1 avocado, diced

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning

1 teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and pepper to taste

Squeeze of lime juice for garnish

Instructions
 

In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth (or water) to a boil. Add the rinsed quinoa, reduce to low heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until quinoa is fluffy and liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let sit for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.

    While the quinoa is cooking, prep your vegetables: chop the cherry tomatoes, bell pepper, red onion, green onions, and avocado. Set aside.

      In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, cherry tomatoes, diced bell pepper, corn, black beans, red onion, and cilantro.

        In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.

          Pour the dressing over the quinoa salad mixture and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.

            Gently fold in the diced avocado to avoid mashing it.

              Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or Cajun seasoning if desired.

                Let the salad sit for at least 15 minutes for flavors to meld. Serve cold or at room temperature, garnished with a squeeze of fresh lime juice.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings