There’s something so satisfying about tossing a bunch of colorful, wholesome ingredients into a bowl and calling it dinner.

I first started making this quinoa and black bean bowl during a season when I was trying to simplify everything—from my schedule to what was on my plate. I needed meals that were easy to prep, full of real food, and left me feeling energized instead of heavy and blah.

This bowl has become a weeknight favorite. It’s hearty thanks to the protein-rich quinoa and beans, fresh from the lime vinaigrette, and endlessly customizable depending on what’s in the fridge. Whether you’re plant-based or just looking for a light, feel-good meal, this bowl delivers.

Ingredients

For the Bowl:

• 1 cup cooked quinoa (from about 1/3 cup dry)

• 1 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained

• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1/2 avocado, diced

• 1/4 cup corn (fresh, canned, or thawed from frozen)

• 2 tbsp chopped red onion

• 1 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

For the Lime Vinaigrette:

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 1/2 tbsp fresh lime juice

• 1 tsp honey or maple syrup

• 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the quinoa if you haven’t already. Let it cool slightly before assembling your bowl.

2. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the lime vinaigrette: olive oil, lime juice, honey, Dijon, salt, and pepper.

3. Assemble the bowl: In a medium bowl, combine quinoa, black beans, tomatoes, corn, red onion, and avocado. Drizzle with vinaigrette and toss gently.

4. Top with fresh cilantro if using, and serve fresh or chilled.

Why I Love This Bowl

This recipe is everything I want on a busy weeknight: nourishing, quick, and satisfying without being heavy. It’s also one of those meals that somehow tastes better the next day—so I always double the batch and tuck a portion in the fridge for lunch.

When I first started eating more plant-based meals, I worried I’d miss that “full” feeling. But meals like this one showed me that real, simple ingredients can be just as comforting and filling as anything else—without the after-dinner slump.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving – Makes 2 servings)

• Calories: 380

• Protein: 12g

• Carbohydrates: 39g

• Fiber: 9g

• Fat: 20g