Spicy Black Bean Kale Quinoa Salad

Kale. Have you tried it yet? It's actually very delicious. And as an added bonus, did you know Kale has more iron than beef? Or that kale has more calcium than milk? It really is a magical leafy green that gives you benefits like vitamins K, C, and A, works as an anti-inflammatory, it's full of antioxidants, and its low in calories. If you have yet to try it, sneak it in your diet with this spicy, diet friendly dinner.

This recipe is a high protein fiber rich meal. Which means it will keep you fuller longer, and who doesn't want that? And mos tof us don't have hours after work to make a gourmet meal, so you are in luck becuase this recipe only takes about 30 minutes, and is great served immediately, or even the next day, so feel free to prep a day ahead of time.

Spicy Black Bean Kale Quinoa Salad

Ingredients:
This makes a whole heck of a lot...so cut in half for a smaller salad.

• 1 cup dry quinoa
• 3-4 leaves kale, stems removed and leaves chopped
• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 1/2 cup frozen sweet corn
• 1 avocado, chopped
• 1/2 cup finely chopped red onion

Dressing:

• 1/2 cup finely chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1/4 cup lime juice
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup cholula hot sauce
• 1 tsp. sriracha sauce
• 1/8 tsp. cayenne pepper
• 3/4 tbsp. dried chili flakes
• 1 large garlic clove, minced
• 1 heaping tsp. honey
• pinch of cumin

Cook the quinoa according to instructions. 

While the quinoa is cooking, add kale, black beans, corn, onions, and avocado into a bowl. Mix well.

Whisk all of the dressing ingredients together in a bowl.

When the quinoa is done cooking, let cool in a bowl in the fridge for 5-10 minutes. When cool, add the quinoa to the kale mixture and combine. Add the dressing and mix really well for a minute or two. Let it sit in the fridge for another 5 minutes. Serve.