Zesty Quinoa Salad

This bright and colorful salad is a great summertime recipe (or anytime you want to feel like its summertime). Light and citrusy, it's a whole new way to enjoy quinoa. Lime juice and cilantro give it a refreshing kick, while quinoa and black beans serve as tasty vegan protein. If you're not vegan, add even more protein by adding chunks of chicken or turkey. Yum!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup quinoa
• 2 Cups water
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin oil
• 2 limes, juiced
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes, or more to taste
• 1 1/2 cups halved cherry tomatoes
• 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 5 green onions, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• salt and ground black pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Bring quinoa and water to a boil in a saucepan. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer until quinoa is tender and water has been absorbed, 10 to 15 minutes. Set aside to cool.
2. Whisk olive oil, lime juice, cumin, 1 teaspoon salt, and red pepper flakes together in a bowl.
3. Combine quinoa, tomatoes, black beans, and green onions together in a bowl. Pour dressing over quinoa mixture; toss to coat. Stir in cilantro; season with salt and black pepper. Serve immediately or chill in refrigerator.

Recipe courtesy of allrecipes.com.