Zingy Jamaican Jerk Quinoa Salad with Mango and Cilantro

Name: Zingy Jamaican Jerk Quinoa Salad with Mango and Cilantro
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Salad
Ingredients: 2 tsp ground allspice; 2 tsp dried thyme; 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper; 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper; 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon; 1 cup quinoa, rinsed; 2 cups water; 1 mango, peeled and cubed; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped; 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 2 tbsp olive oil; 3 tbsp lime juice; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp honey; 1 tbsp jerk seasoning; Lime wedges; Extra cilantro leaves

A vibrant, flavorful salad with tropical flair.

This colorful and nutritious quinoa salad features a blend of spicy jerk seasoning, sweet mango, and fresh cilantro, perfect for a refreshing meal in the sun.

1 h 15 min
4
Easy

Ingredients

For the Jerk Seasoning

2 tsp ground allspice

2 tsp dried thyme

1/2 tsp cayenne pepper

1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper

1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

For the Quinoa Salad

1 cup quinoa, rinsed

2 cups water

1 mango, peeled and cubed

1 red bell pepper, diced

1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped

1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed

1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

For the Dressing

2 tbsp olive oil

3 tbsp lime juice

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tbsp honey

1 tbsp jerk seasoning

from above

For Garnishing

Lime wedges

Extra cilantro leaves

Preparation

Marinating the Jerk Seasoning

Mix the Seasoning

Combine all jerk seasoning ingredients in a small bowl.

Store the Seasoning

Store in an airtight container if making in advance.

Preparing the Quinoa

Rinse Quinoa

Rinse the quinoa under cold water.

Cook Quinoa

Combine quinoa and water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.

Add half a teaspoon of salt to the quinoa water for enhanced flavor.

Simmer Quinoa

Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.

Ensure quinoa is fully cooled before mixing with other salad ingredients for optimal texture.

Cooking Process

Cooking the Quinoa

Boil and steam as per Preparation Step 2 and 3.

Mixing the Dressing

Whisk together dressing ingredients in a bowl.

Combining Salad Elements

In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled quinoa, mango, and vegetables; toss with dressing.

Plating & Serving