Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe brings together all the vibrant, fresh flavors of a burrito in a lighter, healthier form. The quinoa serves as a high-protein, gluten-free base, while the beans and veggies provide fiber and nutrients. Topped with a creamy dressing or salsa, each bite is a delightful balance of textures and flavors. Plus, it’s super versatile, meaning you can adjust the ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Whether you’re vegan, gluten-free, or just looking for a fresh and satisfying meal, these quinoa burrito bowls are the perfect choice!

Ingredients

1 cup quinoa, rinsed
2 cups water or vegetable broth (for cooking quinoa)
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) corn kernels, drained (or 1 ½ cups frozen corn)
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 avocado, diced
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1 cup shredded lettuce or mixed greens
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1 lime, cut into wedges

For the dressing:

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon lime juice
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper, to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook the Quinoa: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and water (or vegetable broth). Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and fluff with a fork.
Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, apple cider vinegar, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
Assemble the Bowls: Divide the cooked quinoa evenly among four bowls. Top each with black beans, corn, bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, avocado, red onion, and lettuce.
Add Dressing and Garnish: Drizzle the dressing over the bowls, then sprinkle with fresh cilantro. Serve with lime wedges for an extra burst of flavor.
Serve: Enjoy immediately or refrigerate for meal prep.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Add Protein: If you’re looking for extra protein, add grilled tofu, tempeh, or a scoop of guacamole.
Different Vegetables: Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies, like zucchini, roasted sweet potatoes, or sautéed mushrooms.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the bowls for some heat.
Vegan version: This recipe is already vegan, but make sure to double-check the dressing ingredients if using a store-bought version.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover components (quinoa, beans, veggies, and dressing) separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat the quinoa and beans in the microwave or on the stovetop before assembling your bowls. Fresh vegetables and avocado should be added after reheating to maintain their texture.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of quinoa?

Yes, you can substitute brown rice or any other grain, though quinoa is a great choice for extra protein and texture.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you ensure all ingredients, including the dressing and any store-bought items, are certified gluten-free.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can cook the quinoa, beans, and dressing ahead of time, and then assemble the bowls just before serving. This makes for a great meal prep option.

What can I substitute for black beans?

You can use pinto beans, kidney beans, or even chickpeas as a substitute for black beans.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add diced jalapeños, chili flakes, or hot sauce to the bowls to give it a spicy kick.

Can I add cheese to this dish?

Yes, if you’re not vegan, you can sprinkle shredded cheese, like cheddar or cotija, on top for an extra creamy flavor.

How do I prevent the avocado from browning?

To prevent browning, add the avocado right before serving or drizzle it with a little lime juice.

What can I use instead of lime in the dressing?

You can substitute lime juice with lemon juice for a slightly different citrus flavor.

Can I use frozen corn?

Yes, frozen corn works perfectly in this dish. Just thaw it before adding it to the bowls.

What can I add to make the bowls more filling?

To make the bowls more filling, consider adding a side of tortilla chips, a dollop of sour cream, or a scoop of guacamole.

Conclusion

Vegetarian Quinoa Burrito Bowls are a fresh, vibrant, and healthy meal that’s full of flavor and nutrients. With the perfect combination of quinoa, beans, veggies, and a zesty dressing, this dish is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying lunch, dinner, or meal prep option, these bowls are the ideal choice. Customize them to your liking and enjoy a meal that’s as nourishing as it is tasty!