Black Bean and Tomato Quinoa
Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 17 Jan 2026
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This vibrant black bean and tomato quinoa salad is a refreshing vegan dish that celebrates bright, zesty flavours. The combination of citrusy lime, fresh coriander and earthy black beans creates a protein-rich meal that is as nutritious as it is colourful. By using a traditional steaming method after boiling, the quinoa achieves a perfectly light and fluffy texture, ensuring it absorbs the buttery lime dressing without becoming heavy or clumped.
Ideal for a healthy weekday lunch or a light evening meal, this versatile salad can be served warm or at room temperature. The inclusion of fresh tomatoes and spring onions adds a crisp finish, making it a wonderful accompaniment to grilled vegetables or enjoyed on its own. It is an excellent choice for meal prep, as the flavours develop beautifully when left to mingle.
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Ingredients for Black Bean and Tomato Quinoa
2 teaspoons grated lime zest
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 teaspoon sugar
200g quinoa
1 (14- to 425g ) can black beans, rinsed and drained
2 medium tomatoes, diced
4 spring onions, chopped
1/4 cup chopped fresh coriander
How to make Black Bean and Tomato Quinoa
Whisk together lime zest and juice, butter, oil, sugar, 1/2 teaspoons salt, and 1/4 teaspoons pepper in a large bowl.
Wash quinoa in 3 changes of cold water in a bowl, draining in a sieve each time.
Cook quinoa in a medium pot of boiling salted water (1 tablespoon salt for 1.9L water), uncovered, until almost tender, about 10 minutes. Drain in sieve, then set sieve in same pot with 1 inch of simmering water (water should not touch bottom of sieve). Cover quinoa with a folded kitchen towel, then cover sieve with a lid (don't worry if lid doesn't fit tightly) and steam over medium heat until tender, fluffy, and dry, about 10 minutes. Remove pot from heat and remove lid. Let stand, still covered with towel, 5 minutes.
Add quinoa to dressing and toss until dressing is absorbed, then stir in remaining ingredients and salt and pepper to taste.
Disclaimer
While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.
Article history
The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.
17 Jan 2026 | Originally published
Authored by:
UK recipe editors
Peer reviewed by
UK recipe editors

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