Dinner

Quinoa Black Bean Salad Recipe

Name: Quinoa Black Bean Salad Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: International
Ingredients: 1 cup quinoa; 1½ cups water; Pinch of kosher salt; 1 mango, peeled and diced; 1 large tomato, seeded and diced; 1 cup chopped scallions; 1 cup chopped fresh cilantro; 15 oz can black beans, drained and rinsed; ¼ cup olive oil; ½ tsp kosher salt; ¼ cup red wine vinegar

BySophie Carsel August 12, 2025August 12, 2025

Jump to Recipe

Bursting with color, flavor, and feel-good ingredients, this Quinoa Black Bean Salad is the kind of meal that brightens up any table. It’s a satisfying mix of fluffy quinoa, sweet, juicy mango, creamy black beans, and a medley of fresh herbs and veggies tossed in a perky vinaigrette. Whether you’re packing lunches, prepping for a potluck, or craving a wholesome side, this zesty salad is the definition of fuss-free and delicious. If you’re looking for something nourishing with a touch of the unexpected, this is it!

Quinoa Black Bean Salad Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Quinoa Black Bean Salad plays a starring role, from the cozy warmth of quinoa to the bright pop of mango and cilantro. Simple, honest ingredients bring layers of flavor, so don’t skip any—they all have a purpose!

Quinoa: The nutty backbone of this dish, quinoa provides protein and a delightful fluffy texture.
Water: Used for perfectly cooking the quinoa, ensuring it’s light and not mushy.
Kosher Salt: A small pinch here goes a long way in enhancing all the natural flavors.
Mango: For juicy sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the beans and grains.
Tomato: Adds a juicy, tart note and vibrant color—try a ripe, firm tomato for the best texture.
Scallions: Their gentle oniony bite lifts the whole salad without ever overpowering it.
Fresh Cilantro: This leafy herb gives the salad its fresh, fragrant character.
Black Beans: Creamy with a mild earthiness, and a great source of plant-based protein.
Olive Oil: The base of the vinaigrette, bringing silky richness to each bite.
Red Wine Vinegar: For a subtle tang that brightens up all the ingredients.

How to Make Quinoa Black Bean Salad

Step 1: Cook the Quinoa

Start by giving your quinoa a good rinse under cold water—this helps remove any bitterness for a cleaner flavor. Add it to your Instant Pot (or a pot on the stove), along with water and a pinch of kosher salt. Cook on high pressure for one minute followed by a natural release for ten minutes. Fluff it with a fork and let it cool. Cool quinoa is key for a salad that doesn’t turn mushy!

Step 2: Whisk Together the Vinaigrette

Next, grab a medium bowl and whisk together olive oil, salt, and red wine vinegar. The dressing should be lively but balanced—the olive oil for depth, vinegar for brightness, and salt to tie it all together. Set aside so it’s ready for action.

Step 3: Assemble the Quinoa Black Bean Salad

In your biggest salad bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, bright mango chunks, juicy tomato, crisp scallions, cilantro, and black beans. Drizzle your dressing over the top and toss everything gently—this is where all the vibrant flavors mingle and come to life!

Step 4: Let the Flavors Mingle and Serve

Let the salad rest for at least 15 minutes so that the quinoa can soak up the vinaigrette goodness. You can serve it immediately, or chill it first. The Quinoa Black Bean Salad is delicious warm or cold, so serve it whichever way fits your day best!

How to Serve Quinoa Black Bean Salad

Garnishes

A sprinkle of extra chopped cilantro adds a final flourish of freshness. For a hint of heat, sliced jalapeños or a dusting of chili flakes are wonderful. A wedge of lime on the side never hurts—let everyone add a smoky squeeze to taste!

Side Dishes

Pair your Quinoa Black Bean Salad with grilled chicken, fish, or spiced tofu for a hearty meal. It’s also fantastic alongside crunchy tortilla chips or nestled in lettuce cups for a fun, hands-on lunch.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, try layering the salad into mason jars—perfect for meal prep or a picnic. You can also use it to fill bell pepper halves, or serve spoonfuls atop a bed of leafy greens for a show-stopping composed salad.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Quinoa Black Bean Salad keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen as they mingle, making each bite even more delicious by day two!

Freezing

While you technically can freeze this salad, it’s best enjoyed fresh. Freezing can alter the texture of the mango and tomato, making them watery upon thawing. For best results, refrigerate and enjoy within a few days.

Reheating

This salad is most often served chilled or at room temperature, but if you love it warm, a quick zap in the microwave (30–40 seconds) will do the trick. Stir gently to maintain the quinoa’s fluffiness.

FAQs

Can I make Quinoa Black Bean Salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, making this salad a few hours in advance lets the flavors meld and develop even more. Just keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to serve.

What’s the best type of mango for this salad?

Choose a mango that’s ripe but still firm so it holds its shape in the salad. Champagne (Ataulfo) mangos are perfect for their buttery texture and sweetness.

Can I substitute other beans if I don’t have black beans?

Definitely! While black beans add unique creaminess and color, kidney beans or cannellini beans make tasty substitutes.

How do I keep the quinoa from getting mushy?

Let the quinoa cool completely before combining with other ingredients, and fluff it gently with a fork after cooking. This keeps the grains light and separate.

Is Quinoa Black Bean Salad gluten-free?

Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free (and vegan too), making it a smart choice for all kinds of eating preferences and dietary needs!

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving vibrant flavors, nourishing textures, and something just plain cheerful to eat, give this Quinoa Black Bean Salad a try. It’s a go-to in my kitchen for good reason—I hope it becomes one in yours, too!

Sophie Carsel

Quinoa Black Bean Salad Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need