Black Bean Quinoa Salad with Orange Vinaigrette

This was a delicious summer time salad with lots of fresh veggies and a very tasty orange dressing.

Ingredients:

1 cup quinoa

1 (15 oz) can mandarin oranges, drained

1 red bell pepper, diced

1 jalapeno, seeded and diced

1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed

1 (10 oz) can corn kernels, drained and rinsed

1/3 cup red onion, chopped

2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped

for the orange vinaigrette:

1/4 cup olive oil

zest of 1 orange

1 tablespoon sugar 

1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice

1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Directions:

Bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add 1 cup quinoa and return to a boil. Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes until cooked. Fluff with a fork and set aside.  

To make the vinaigrette, whisk together the olive oil, orange zest, sugar, orange juice, and apple cider vinegar.

In a large bowl, combine the quinoa, oranges, bell pepper, jalapeno, black beans, corn, red onion, and cilantro. Pour HALF the vinaigrette over the salad and gently toss to combine. Taste and add more dressing if needed.

Source: adapted from Damn Delicious