One-Pot Mexican Quinoa: A Delicious and Easy Weeknight Meal

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Discover a flavorful and simple weeknight dinner with this incredible One-Pot Mexican Quinoa recipe. This dish combines easy-to-find ingredients into a vibrant meal packed with authentic Mexican flavors.

You only need a handful of common ingredients to create this satisfying skillet meal, perfect for those busy evenings. It’s a complete protein and vegetable powerhouse, ensuring you feel full and energized after this effortless dinner.

This one-pan Mexican quinoa recipe is truly a weeknight wonder. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, boasts a high protein content thanks to the use of quinoa instead of rice, and delivers an explosion of delicious flavors that the whole family will love. Enjoy the ease and convenience of a meal that cooks all together in one pot!

Looking for exciting new meatless Monday recipes? Add this delightful one-pan Mexican quinoa recipe to your rotation! Sneak in extra veggies with this recipe, just like with my Hidden Veggie Chocolate Muffins!

Step-by-Step Recipe Video

Ingredients for One-Pot Mexican Quinoa

• Oil: Use your favorite olive oil or avocado oil for cooking.
• Seasoning: You’ll need minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and ground black pepper to create that authentic Mexican taste.
• Vegetables: Have on hand a jalapeño (for a little kick!), black beans (rinsed and drained), fire-roasted tomatoes, and corn for added texture and flavor.
• Grains: Choose your preferred type of quinoa as the base of the dish.
• Liquid: Either chicken or vegetable broth will provide the necessary moisture and flavor.
• Juice: A squeeze of fresh lime juice or bottled lime juice from your fridge adds a bright, zesty element.
• Toppings: Get creative with toppings like shredded cheese, crisp lettuce, creamy avocado, sour cream, or flavorful salsa to personalize your dish.

For another quick and easy meal, consider picking up a rotisserie chicken and making this super quick Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad.

How to Make This One-Pot Mexican Quinoa

This simple one-pot recipe comes together in just a few easy steps. Follow along for a delicious and satisfying Mexican quinoa meal!

1. Add the oil to a large pot or deep skillet. Once the oil is hot, add the garlic and jalapeño and sauté for 2-3 minutes, until fragrant. This step infuses the oil with delicious flavor, setting the stage for the rest of the dish.

2. Add the uncooked quinoa, broth (chicken or vegetable), black beans, diced tomatoes (fire-roasted for extra depth), corn, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Ensure that the quinoa is evenly distributed so it cooks properly.

3. Cover the pot and let the mixture simmer for 18-22 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook until the quinoa is tender and the liquid has been absorbed. Once cooked, stir in the lime juice to brighten the flavors. Top with your favorite colorful veggie toppings, such as avocado, tomatoes, or cilantro, and serve. Enjoy your delicious and healthy One-Pot Mexican Quinoa!

How to Store Leftover Mexican Quinoa

Fridge: This recipe makes for excellent leftovers. Allow the quinoa to cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days for the best quality and flavor.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect One-Pot Mexican Quinoa

Here are some helpful tips and tricks to ensure your one-pot Mexican quinoa turns out perfectly every time!

What is Quinoa?

If you’re not too familiar with quinoa, think of it as a cross between couscous and brown rice. It’s a nutritious and hearty grain that offers more protein than rice. Despite its unique name, quinoa is incredibly easy to prepare. If you can turn on a stove, you can easily make quinoa!

Delicious Toppings to Enhance Your One-Pot Mexican Quinoa

After the quinoa is cooked and tender, stir in some fresh lime juice for a burst of citrusy flavor. This dish can be enjoyed as is, but adding classic Mexican toppings elevates it to a whole new level. Consider these tasty options:

• Fresh lettuce, shredded or chopped
• Cool and creamy sour cream
• Diced avocado for richness and healthy fats
• Flavorful salsa, from mild to spicy
• Shredded cheese, such as cheddar or Monterey Jack
• Fresh green onions, thinly sliced
• Chopped fresh cilantro for an herbaceous touch

For an extra protein boost, make this easy slow cooker ground beef recipe. You can pull a small bag from the freezer, heat it up, and add it as a topping or stir it in at step 2 for added heartiness and flavor!

Serving Suggestions for One-Pot Mexican Quinoa

Honestly, this dish stands perfectly well on its own. It’s a balanced and complete meal packed with grains, protein, and vegetables. However, you can also serve it with classic Mexican sides like Mexican street corn, tortilla chips, guacamole, or queso for a more festive meal.

If you’re looking to increase the protein content even further, consider serving this Mexican quinoa with some grilled chicken, grilled shrimp, or savory pork carnitas. It’s always a treat to add some extra flavorful meat to the mix!

Explore More One-Pot Mexican Meals

Craving more one-pot Mexican-inspired dishes? Try these delicious and easy-to-make recipes:

• One Pot Mexican Beef and Rice
• Taco Quesadillas
• Dump and Go Fiesta Chicken Casserole
• Salsa Verde Casserole
• Taco Seasoned Mexican Beef and Rice