Southwest Quinoa Cherry Bowl (Print)

A vibrant bowl combining quinoa, black beans, and vegetables with sweet cherries and tangy pomegranate salsa.

# Components:

→ Grains

01 - 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
02 - 2 cups vegetable broth

→ Vegetables & Beans

03 - 1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
04 - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
05 - 1 red bell pepper, diced
06 - 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or thawed from frozen)
07 - 2 cups baby spinach, roughly chopped
08 - 1 small red onion, finely diced

→ Fruits

09 - 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and halved
10 - 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds

→ Salsa & Dressing

11 - 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
12 - 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
13 - Juice of 1 lime
14 - 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
15 - 1/2 tsp ground cumin
16 - 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
17 - Salt and black pepper, to taste

→ Toppings

18 - 1 avocado, sliced
19 - 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)

# Directions:

01 - In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until liquid is absorbed and quinoa is fluffy. Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
02 - In a medium bowl, combine pomegranate seeds, cherries, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, 1 tbsp olive oil, and a pinch of salt. Mix well and set aside.
03 - In a large skillet, heat remaining 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add red bell pepper and corn; cook for 3–4 minutes until slightly softened. Add black beans, cherry tomatoes, and spinach; cook for another 2–3 minutes until spinach wilts. Season with cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
04 - Divide cooked quinoa among four bowls. Top with sautéed vegetables, then spoon over the pomegranate-cherry salsa.
05 - Garnish with avocado slices and crumbled feta cheese if desired. Serve immediately.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Ready in just 40 minutes from start to finish
  • Uses both pantry staples and fresh seasonal produce
  • Naturally gluten free and easily adaptable for vegan diets
  • Perfect balance of protein fiber and healthy fats
02 -
  • Over 12 grams of protein per serving without any meat
  • Can be made ahead and assembled just before serving
  • Beautiful enough for entertaining yet simple enough for weeknights
  • Excellent source of fiber antioxidants and essential minerals
03 -
  • Toast the quinoa in a dry pan for 2 minutes before adding broth for enhanced nutty flavor
  • Massage a tiny pinch of salt into your avocado slices to prevent browning and enhance taste
  • For meal prep separate components and assemble just before eating for best texture and flavor

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