Easy One-Pan Mexican Quinoa (Healthy, flavorful, and Ready in 25 Minutes)

🔪Prep Time 5 Min
🔥Cook Time 20 Min
🍽️Servings4 servings People
Calories320 kcal

I used to think Quinoa was boring, bland, and honestly? A little bit sad. That was until I stopped boiling it in plain water and started treating it like a paella! This One-Pan Mexican Quinoa changed my Tuesday nights forever. You literally dump everything into one skillet, let the magic happen, and boom—you have a zesty, cheesy (or not), protein-packed dinner. The best part? There is only one pan to wash. You’re welcome.

⏱️
Total Time
25 Mins
🥘
Servings
4 Bowls
💪
Protein
14g / Serv

🧡 Why Your Body Will Love This

  • Complete Protein: Quinoa is one of the few plant foods that contains all nine essential amino acids.
  • Fiber Bomb: The combo of black beans and corn will keep you full for hours and support digestion.
  • Vitamin C Boost: The tomatoes, lime juice, and peppers are packed with immune-boosting antioxidants.

The “Dump & Go” List

  • 🍚 1 cup Quinoa (Uncooked, and make sure to rinse it well!)
  • 🥣 1.5 cups Vegetable Broth (Flavor is key here)
  • 1 can Black Beans (Rinsed and drained)
  • 🌽 1 cup Corn Kernels (Frozen, canned, or fresh)
  • 🍅 1 can Diced Tomatoes (Fire-roasted is best if you can find it)
  • 🌶️ Spices: 1 tsp Cumin, 1 tsp Chili Powder, 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder.
  • 🥑 Toppings: Fresh cilantro, avocado slices, and a squeeze of lime.

Let’s Get Cooking

  1. The Mix: In a large skillet or pan, combine the quinoa, broth, beans, corn, tomatoes (with their juices!), and all the spices. Stir it well.
  2. The Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once bubbling, reduce the heat to low, cover with a tight lid, and simmer for **20 minutes**. No peeking!
  3. The Fluff: Remove from heat. Let it sit covered for another 5 minutes (this helps the quinoa pop). Remove lid and fluff with a fork.
  4. The Finish: Stir in fresh lime juice and cilantro. Top with avocado and serve immediately.

👩‍🍳 Chef’s “No-Bitter” Trick

If you’ve tried quinoa before and found it bitter, it’s because of the saponin (a natural coating). **Always rinse your quinoa** in a fine-mesh strainer under cold water for 30 seconds before cooking. This removes the bitterness and makes it taste nutty and delicious.

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