Cilantro Lime Quinoa Bowls with Hummus Vinaigrette
Try this Cilantro Lime Quinoa Bowls with Hummus Vinaigrette recipe.
Try this Cilantro Lime Quinoa Bowls with Hummus Vinaigrette recipe.
- 1 1/2 cups water
- salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- 2 tsp paprika
- pinch of sugar
- 2 cups grape tomatoes halved
- juice of 1 lime
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breast halves
- 1/4 tsp cumin
- 1 cup quinoa rinsed and drained
- 4 tablespoons chopped cilantro divided
- 2 large avocados sliced
- 1/2 cup classic sabra hummus
- 1 (15oz) can black beans rinsed and drained
- Carbohydrate 6.64549682427391 g
- Cholesterol 68.44 mg
- Fat 4.44698849064023 g
- Fiber 1.69143703003904 g
- Protein 28.3793909375324 g
- Saturated Fat 0.804249880349092 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (313g)
- Sodium 104.789382815755 mg
- Sugar 4.95405979423487 g
- Trans Fat 0.546992239611541 g
- Calories 180 calories
Step-by-step
- Combine the quinoa and 1 1/2 cups water in a small pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 to 15 minutes, or until liquid is absorbed and quinoa is tender. Remove from heat.
- Stir the juice of one lime and 2 tablespoons of cilantro into the quinoa and set aside.
- Heat the grill to medium high and brush the grates with the olive oil.
- Combine the spices in a small bowl and then rub each chicken breast with the spice mix.
- Grill the chicken for 3 to 4 minutes per side, until cooked through. Remove from grill to a plate and cover loosely with tin foil. Let rest for at least 5 minutes before dicing.
- Combine the hummus, lime juice, and cayenne pepper in a small bowl and whisk until smooth.
- Divide the quinoa, black beans, tomatoes, avocado, and chicken into 4 separate bowls.
- Sprinkle with remaining cilantro then drizzle the hummus dressing over the top.
- If desired, serve with an additional tablespoon of hummus on top of each salad.
- Enjoy!
Cilantro Lime Quinoa Bowls with Hummus Vinaigrette: A Weeknight Delight
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook healthy and delicious meals can feel like a Herculean task. Between juggling work deadlines, school pick-ups, and keeping the house in order, the thought of spending hours in the kitchen is often overwhelming. But what if I told you that a vibrant, flavorful, and nutritious meal can be ready in under 30 minutes? This Cilantro Lime Quinoa Bowls with Hummus Vinaigrette recipe is my go-to solution for those hectic weeknights when I need a quick, satisfying, and healthy dinner that the whole family will love.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and versatility. Quinoa, a complete protein packed with fiber, forms the base of this healthy bowl. It's quick-cooking, requiring only 15 minutes of simmering time. The vibrant cilantro and zesty lime juice add a refreshing burst of flavor, perfectly balancing the creamy hummus vinaigrette. The grilled chicken breast provides a lean protein source, while the black beans and avocado contribute healthy fats and fiber, keeping me full and energized throughout the evening. The addition of juicy grape tomatoes adds a pop of sweetness and color, making this bowl a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.
The magic of meal prepping: I often double or even triple this recipe and store the components separately in the refrigerator. This allows me to quickly assemble these bowls throughout the week, saving me precious time on those busy evenings. The cooked quinoa, grilled chicken, and chopped vegetables can be stored for up to 3-4 days in airtight containers. The hummus vinaigrette can also be stored separately and added just before serving to maintain its freshness and creamy texture. This meal prep strategy is a game-changer for busy individuals like me who value efficiency and healthy eating.
Beyond the weeknight: This recipe is incredibly adaptable and can be easily customized to suit your preferences and dietary needs. Feel free to experiment with different protein sources, such as shrimp, tofu, or chickpeas. You can also swap out the vegetables to include your favorites; roasted sweet potatoes, bell peppers, or zucchini would all be delicious additions. The possibilities are truly endless. I've even served this dish at casual gatherings and potlucks, always receiving rave reviews. Its vibrant colors and delightful flavors make it a crowd-pleaser.
More than just a meal: This Cilantro Lime Quinoa Bowls with Hummus Vinaigrette is more than just a quick and easy dinner; it's a testament to the power of simple, wholesome ingredients and mindful cooking. It's a reminder that even amidst the chaos of daily life, we can prioritize our health and well-being by nourishing ourselves with delicious, nutritious food. This recipe has become a cherished part of my routine, a beacon of health and ease in the midst of my busy schedule. I hope it becomes a staple in your kitchen as well.
Tips and Tricks for Success:
- Rinse your quinoa: Rinsing the quinoa before cooking helps remove saponins, a bitter compound that can affect the taste.
- Don't overcook the quinoa: Overcooked quinoa can become mushy. Cook it until it's tender but still retains a slight bite.
- Adjust the spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of spices to suit your taste. If you prefer a spicier bowl, add more cayenne pepper.
- Make it ahead: Prepare the components of the bowl ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator for easy assembly throughout the week.
- Get creative with toppings: Experiment with different toppings to add variety and flavor. Some ideas include toasted nuts, seeds, shredded cheese, or a drizzle of hot sauce.
This Cilantro Lime Quinoa Bowls with Hummus Vinaigrette recipe is a testament to the fact that healthy and delicious doesn't have to be complicated. It’s a perfect example of how simple ingredients, thoughtfully combined, can create a truly satisfying and nutritious meal, perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend lunch. Enjoy!
