One-Pot Zesty Quinoa Fiesta Flavorful and Easy Meal

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 1 whole red bell pepper, diced
• 1 whole yellow bell pepper, diced
• 1 small red onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 whole lime, juiced and zested
• 0.25 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• to taste salt and pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until translucent.
2. Stir in the minced garlic, diced bell peppers, cumin, smoked paprika, and chili powder. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the peppers soften and are fragrant.
3. Add the rinsed quinoa to the pot, stirring it in with the sautéed vegetables. Toast the quinoa for about 1 minute, then pour in the vegetable broth.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is fluffy and all the liquid has been absorbed.
5. Once done, fluff the quinoa with a fork and stir in the black beans, corn, lime juice, and lime zest. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Remove from heat and mix in the chopped cilantro for a fresh finish.
7. Allow it to sit for a few minutes to cool and meld the flavors before serving.