One Pan Mexican Quinoa – Easy & Healthy

If you’re looking for a flavorful, nutritious, and super easy meal, One Pan Mexican Quinoa is your go-to dish. Packed with protein, fiber, and plenty of veggies, this one-pan wonder is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. You’ll love how all the ingredients come together in a single pan, making cleanup a breeze while still delivering vibrant, bold flavors.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup quinoa (rinsed)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)

• 1 zucchini, diced

• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes

• 1 cup vegetable broth

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1 teaspoon chili powder

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Juice of 1 lime

• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

• Optional: avocado, shredded cheese, or sour cream for topping

Instructions:

Step 1: Sauté the Veggies

In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for another 1 minute, stirring occasionally, until fragrant.

Step 2: Add the Vegetables

Add the diced bell pepper and zucchini to the pan, stirring occasionally. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.

Step 3: Season the Dish

Add the cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to the pan. Stir well to coat the vegetables with the spices, allowing them to cook for another 1-2 minutes.

Step 4: Cook the Quinoa

Add the rinsed quinoa to the pan, followed by the black beans, diced tomatoes (with juices), and vegetable broth. Stir everything together, ensuring the quinoa is evenly distributed.

Step 5: Simmer

Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover the pan with a lid. Lower the heat and let it cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until the quinoa has absorbed the liquid and is tender. Stir halfway through the cooking process to prevent sticking.

Step 6: Add Lime & Serve

Once the quinoa is cooked, remove the pan from the heat. Stir in the lime juice for a burst of freshness. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lime juice if needed.

Step 7: Garnish & Enjoy

Top with fresh cilantro, and for extra creaminess, you can add a dollop of sour cream or sprinkle some shredded cheese. Serve with sliced avocado for a cool contrast to the warm, spiced quinoa.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Quick & Easy: One pan, minimal prep—perfect for a busy weeknight meal.

• Healthy: Packed with protein from quinoa and black beans, along with vitamins from fresh veggies.

• Versatile: Customize it with your favorite toppings or additional veggies like corn, spinach, or jalapeños.

• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch and store leftovers for a few days or freeze for later.

Tips & Variations:

• Add Protein: For a heartier meal, you can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even ground turkey.

• Make It Spicy: Add some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to give this dish a spicy kick.

• Vegan Option: This recipe is already vegan, but you can top it with dairy-free cheese or skip the cheese altogether.

Conclusion:

One Pan Mexican Quinoa is a flavor-packed, healthy meal that comes together quickly with minimal cleanup. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal prep option, this dish checks all the boxes. It’s nutritious, satisfying, and perfect for anyone craving vibrant, Mexican-inspired flavors.