Rating: 3.71
(96)

Healthy Mexican Quinoa

January 29, 2025

If you’re looking for a healthy, filling meal that’s bursting with flavor, look no further than healthy Mexican quinoa. This dish combines the nutty goodness of quinoa with vibrant Mexican-inspired ingredients, creating a colorful, protein-packed bowl that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. Packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals, it’s a great choice for anyone seeking a nutritious, yet satisfying meal.

Quinoa is a superfood that’s often praised for being a complete protein, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids. It’s also high in fiber, making it a great choice for digestion and maintaining energy levels throughout the day. This healthy Mexican quinoa recipe takes advantage of quinoa’s versatility while adding the bold flavors of classic Mexican ingredients.

To make this dish, start by cooking the quinoa in vegetable broth for added flavor. The quinoa will absorb the broth, giving it a rich taste. While the quinoa is cooking, prepare a variety of fresh vegetables, such as red bell peppers, onions, corn, black beans, and cherry tomatoes. These colorful veggies not only provide a burst of nutrition but also add texture and crunch to the dish.

Once the quinoa is cooked and fluffy, toss it with the veggies, and season the mixture with classic Mexican spices such as cumin, chili powder, garlic, and lime juice. These spices bring the dish to life with their earthy and zesty flavors. For an extra kick, you can add some diced jalapeños or hot sauce. To finish off the dish, garnish with fresh cilantro, avocado, and a sprinkle of crumbled feta or cotija cheese for an added creamy, salty contrast.

This healthy Mexican quinoa is as versatile as it is delicious. You can enjoy it as a main dish, or serve it as a side with grilled chicken, fish, or tacos. It’s also perfect for meal prep, as it holds up well in the fridge for a few days, making it an excellent option for busy weeks.

Packed with plant-based protein, fiber, and vibrant flavors, healthy Mexican quinoa is a meal you can feel good about enjoying, whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or simply craving a wholesome, satisfying dish.

Healthy Mexican Quinoa
Healthy Mexican Quinoa
3.71 from 96 votes
A vibrant and nutritious Mexican-inspired quinoa dish packed with flavors and essential nutrients. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish.
Servings 4 people
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup quinoa rinsed
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • 1 medium onion chopped
  • 1 can black beans drained and rinsed
  • 1 can diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup frozen corn
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt to taste
  • 1 lime juice
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped

Instructions
 

  • Rinse quinoa under cold water until water runs clear.
  • In a medium saucepan, combine rinsed quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil.
  • Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until liquid is absorbed and quinoa is tender.
  • In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and onion, and sauté until onions are translucent.
  • Stir in black beans, diced tomatoes, and corn until well combined.
  • Add cooked quinoa, chili powder, cumin, and salt. Stir to blend all ingredients.
  • Cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing flavors to meld together.
  • Remove from heat, mix in lime juice, and sprinkle with fresh cilantro before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 212kcalCarbohydrates: 36gProtein: 8gFat: 5gSodium: 300mgPotassium: 380mgFiber: 7gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 4mgIron: 12mg
Calories: 212kcal
Meal Type: Dinner
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: healthy eating, Mexican Cuisine, quinoa
Cooking Method: Boiled
Time: 30-45 Min
Level: Easy
Tried this recipe?Mention @coolinarco or tag #coolinarco!
Join the Conversation
  1. User avatar tonette.lemke43 says:

    4 stars
    Y’all gotta try this! I added some jalapeños for extra heat. Soooo good! 🌶️

  2. User avatar oPandariaNo says:

    5 stars
    This recipe is amazing! So easy to make and packed with flavor. My family loved it!

  3. User avatar sherman.williamson62 says:

    4 stars
    I mixed it up a bit and used chicken broth instead of veggie. Not sure if that’s like cheating but it was delish! 😂

  4. User avatar eddie.schowalter18 says:

    3 stars
    I don’t know about using quinoa… Can I just use rice instead? 🤔

    1. User avatar herschel.bode93 says:

      4 stars
      You can use rice, but quinoa is way healthier! Why not give it a try? 😊

  5. 2 stars
    I don’t know why everyone raves about quinoa. It’s just tasteless beads with a crunch. Not for me.

  6. User avatar toya.bogisich55 says:

    5 stars
    This was such a refreshing dish! Perfectly balanced flavors! Will definitely make again.

    1. User avatar houston.klein63 says:

      5 stars
      Totally agree! I love how healthy and flavorful it is. Have you tried adding avocado? It takes it to the next level!

    2. User avatar Wispmother says:

      3 stars
      Sounds great, but isn’t quinoa kinda bland? How do you make it taste good?

  7. User avatar zita.satterfield38 says:

    4 stars
    Used brown rice instead, and it still worked fine. Not sure how it compares but was yummy!

    1. User avatar lauran.orn96 says:

      4 stars
      Glad to hear brown rice worked for you! I’ve been tempted to try variations too.

    2. 3 stars
      But brown rice takes longer to cook than quinoa, right? How was the texture?

  8. User avatar elnora.hand9 says:

    2 stars
    Quinoa? More like quinoa… not my thing. Also, what’s with the cilantro? Too strong! 🌿

  9. User avatar Deep Thought says:

    2 stars
    I dunno, I thought it would be spicier. It was kinda bland. 🤷‍♂️

  10. User avatar devon.predovic12 says:

    2 stars
    Can I substitute black beans with chicken? Just curious, since I’m not a bean person.

  11. 5 stars
    So healthy and easy. Makes me feel like I’m eating superfoods! 🥗

  12. 3 stars
    Eh, it was okay. My kids wouldn’t eat it. Maybe it’s a taste thing?

  13. User avatar rodney.rogahn says:

    3 stars
    Why is this healthy? It’s just beans and rice? I don’t get it.

    1. User avatar samella.thompson78 says:

      2 stars
      Hmm, I dunno. Sounds bland. Just a bunch of beans and rice. I like my food spicy!

    2. User avatar stephen.bins says:

      5 stars
      Actually, beans and rice are a complete protein, especially when combined with quinoa. Plus, all those veggies are packed with nutrients! So, it’s not just beans and rice.

  14. User avatar michell.pouros16 says:

    3 stars
    Can I use chicken broth instead? I don’t have veg brot. Pls respond!

  15. 5 stars
    Yesss! I’m a fan of anything Mexican! Can’t wait to try this!

  16. User avatar emery.corwin74 says:

    5 stars
    This dish was so good! I added some avocado on top and it was amazing! Definitely making again.

    1. User avatar Mila and her father says:

      5 stars
      That sounds delicious! I’ve never thought about adding avocado. I’ll try that next time!

    2. User avatar francesco.runolfsdottir says:

      2 stars
      Avocado? Really? I dunno if that’d taste good. The dish is fine without it, right?

  17. User avatar Lumberjack says:

    2 stars
    Real Mexican food has meat in it. This is not authentic, just sayin.

  18. User avatar smartestRedditor says:

    5 stars
    Yum.
    Healthy.

  19. User avatar Feral Falmer says:

    3 stars
    Is olive oil necessary? Can I just use butter? Sounds good tho.

    1. User avatar antonia.quitzon49 says:

      5 stars
      Nah, olive oil is way healthier than butter, plus it adds a unique taste.

    2. User avatar joe.metz10 says:

      4 stars
      You can totally use butter! It’ll give it a different flavor but should be fine.

  20. User avatar titus.osinski1979 says:

    3 stars
    I thought it would be a lot more flavorful. The cumin and chili powder didn’t do much for me. Maybe needs more spices?

  21. 4 stars
    Great way to use quinoa! I added some avocado on top. Yummy!

    1. 5 stars
      Sounds delicious! I love the idea of adding avocado, it must add a nice creaminess. Can’t wait to try it!

  22. User avatar julienne.graham39 says:

    5 stars
    So easy to follow! I’m not a great cook but I nailed this one. Thanks!

  23. 5 stars
    OMG this is so yummyyyyyyyy!! 😋

  24. User avatar logan.breitenberg1994 says:

    5 stars
    Delicious and healthy! I added avocado on top, amazing!

  25. User avatar erich.white says:

    3 stars
    Kinda bland. Needed more spice or something. I add some hot sauce next time.

  26. User avatar joy.hettinger1 says:

    3 stars
    It’s good, but maybe add more spices next time? Felt a bit bland!

  27. 4 stars
    Loved it! Even my kids ate it which is a miracle! Thanks for sharing!

  28. User avatar elwood.schaefer1982 says:

    4 stars
    My kids loved it! We served it with tortilla chips. Will be making this recipe regularly. Thanks!

    1. 5 stars
      So glad your kids enjoyed it! It’s a great way to sneak in healthy ingredients. Do you think they would try it without the tortilla chips?

  29. User avatar Ice Wraith says:

    2 stars
    Not what I expected. It was kinda bland. Needs more seasoning!

  30. User avatar Duncan Idaho says:

    4 stars
    Just made this, tastes like hippie food! 😂 But it’s good for my diet.

    1. User avatar MAGA2024.Trumpster says:

      5 stars
      Hippie food? 😂 I get that, but healthy stuff can taste good too! Love quinoa!

    2. User avatar dennis.schultz says:

      2 stars
      Tastes good? Really? I thought quinoa was just for health freaks lol.

  31. User avatar eun.bauch47 says:

    5 stars
    I made this for dinner and it was gone in minutes! My kids gobbled it up! ❤️

    1. 3 stars
      Sounds nice, but my kids don’t like quinoa. Maybe they will eat it if I add cheese?

    2. User avatar Demon King Piccolo says:

      5 stars
      This looks so good! I’m definitely trying it for my picky eaters. Thanks for sharing!

  32. User avatar Galaxia Woonbeam says:

    5 stars
    Easy to make! I added jalapeños for a kick. Yummy! 😊

  33. User avatar Cucco Keeper says:

    2 stars
    I dunno, it didn’t turn out like I thought. The quinoa was kinda mushy. Not great.

    1. User avatar darin.dubuque1990 says:

      3 stars
      Maybe you overcooked the quinoa? It should be fluffy, not mushy. Try rinsing it better next time!

  34. User avatar Owen Cash says:

    5 stars
    This was so good! Super easy to make and my family loved it. Definitely making it again!

    1. User avatar jermaine.walker87 says:

      5 stars
      This recipe is a game changer! I’ve never liked quinoa before, but this is just amazing. Can’t wait to serve it at our family dinner!

  35. User avatar wm.roob20 says:

    1 star
    I accidentally used brown rice instead and it turned out terrible. My bad.

  36. User avatar Falmer Nightprowler says:

    5 stars
    This is amazing! So flavorful and healthy. Will make it again for sure!

    1. 5 stars
      I totally agree! This recipe is so good and easy to make. I’m glad you enjoyed it too!

  37. 2 stars
    I don’t know about this recipe. Quinoa tastes funny to me. Maybe it’s just me?

  38. 5 stars
    This was sooo good! Had it for dinner and my kids loved it. 🤩😋

  39. User avatar Zaphod Beeblebrox says:

    2 stars
    I don’t get it. Why would you use quinoa? Rice is way better. This dish didn’t wow me.

  40. User avatar kimberly.connelly60 says:

    5 stars
    Great dish! I added some avocado on top, made it even better! Yum!

  41. User avatar jody.hickle33 says:

    1 star
    Meh. I prefer my tacos over this quinoa stuff.

  42. User avatar roxann.hahn14 says:

    3 stars
    Is it really healthy? Quinoa is kinda high in carbs. What’s the deal? 😏

  43. User avatar darnell.roberts says:

    5 stars
    This was sooo good! My family loved it and it was super easy to make. Will definitely make again!

  44. User avatar irwin.fay14 says:

    4 stars
    I accidentally used chicken broth instead of vegetable broth. It still turned out fine lol!

  45. User avatar penny.torphy77 says:

    5 stars
    This was absolutely delicious! I added some avocado on top and it was perfect. Highly recommend!

  46. 5 stars
    Making it again tonight! So easy and healthy. Love this.

    1. User avatar Clara Nett says:

      5 stars
      I made this last week and my whole family loved it! Super easy for a weeknight.

  47. User avatar beth.hoppe4 says:

    5 stars
    Easy recipe. My husband said he doesn’t like quinoa, but he ate a whole bowl. 🌽👍

  48. User avatar melvina.russel2022 says:

    3 stars
    I don’t like cilantro. Can I leave it out or does it HAVE to be in there?

    1. User avatar Falmer Shaman says:

      5 stars
      You can definitely leave out the cilantro! The recipe will still be great without it. Just add a bit more lime for freshness!

  49. User avatar Princess Ruto says:

    4 stars
    What the heck is quinoa? I just used rice instead and it still turned out fine. Doesn’t seem that hard.

  50. User avatar max.deckow96 says:

    1 star
    I’ve never heard of quinoa before. Can you even eat that? Sounds weird.

    1. User avatar Franklyn Bernhard says:

      2 stars
      Yeah, I’ve heard of it. It’s just a grain, right? But I don’t know if I’d eat something that looks like tiny balls.

    2. User avatar alex.bernier31 says:

      5 stars
      Quinoa is actually super healthy! It’s packed with protein and easy to cook. You should give it a try!

  51. User avatar MAGA2024.Trumpster says:

    4 stars
    Healthy and filling! I added some avocado on top, it was bomb. 🌱

  52. User avatar Arthur Dent says:

    4 stars
    Yummm! But I think it’s missing something, like cheese or sour cream. Just my opinion though. 😊

    1. User avatar garnet.reinger says:

      3 stars
      Cheese? I dunno, sounds like it might ruin the healthy stuff? But hey, do what you like.

    2. 5 stars
      I totally get what you mean! A sprinkle of cheese would make it even more delicious! 🧀

  53. User avatar Frodo Baggins says:

    4 stars
    Yum! I substituted the black beans for kidney beans. It’s still tasty! 🍛

    1. 5 stars
      That sounds great! I’ve never tried it with kidney beans, but I might give it a shot. Thanks for the tip! 😊

  54. 4 stars
    Came out pretty good! Might try this again, but with more spice next time. 📈

  55. User avatar Taren Dare says:

    5 stars
    Best meal ever! This is going in my recipe book! 🌟

  56. User avatar Macie Hoeger DDS says:

    5 stars
    Delicious! My kids loved it too. Even picky eaters ate it. 😊

  57. User avatar kimberly.olson says:

    4 stars
    Super simple and quick! Perfect for a weekday dinner.

  58. User avatar mohammed.conn2015 says:

    2 stars
    Healthy??? I mean its quinoa, but all the beans and corn make it kinda high in carbs. Not sure about the healthy part.

    1. User avatar lynetta.cole says:

      5 stars
      I think it’s still healthy! Quinoa is super nutritious, and beans have protein. Plus, those are whole foods!

    2. User avatar lonna.dooley says:

      2 stars
      Yeah, but too many carbs can lead to weight gain. I’d rather stick to salads.

  59. User avatar ellsworth.schroeder says:

    3 stars
    Doesn’t look like the pic. Should’ve used more seasoning or somethin. 😕

    1. User avatar ashley.schowalter11 says:

      4 stars
      I thought the same! A bit more spice would’ve been awesome. Maybe next time add some jalapeños? 🌶️

  60. 3 stars
    I don’t get why people love quinoa so much. This recipe was just alright for me. 3 stars.

  61. User avatar darryl.halvorson2007 says:

    5 stars
    This quinoa recipe is amazing! So tasty and healthy!

  62. 1 star
    I made dis for lunch and now my stomach hurt. Maybe too much corn? 🤢

  63. 1 star
    Healthy meals are boring! I need more flavor in my food, but I guess people like this kind of stuff.

  64. 3 stars
    I thought this was a little bland. Needs more spices or maybe salsa!

  65. User avatar Dominic Vernius says:

    3 stars
    I dunno, quinoa sounds weird. Can I use rice instead? Will it work?

  66. User avatar mauricio.klein1976 says:

    2 stars
    I tried making it but I think I overcooked the quinoa… kinda mushy 🙁

3.71 from 96 votes
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