I love Mexican food for so many reasons. One of which being how easy it is to prepare a healthy, balanced meal with loads of flavor.

The other night I was sorting through the kitchen trying to come up with a quick, healthy, meal on the cheap and this is what came to be…

MEXICAN QUINOA & BLACK BEAN BOWLS

Ingredients:

– 1 cup quinoa – 1 lb ground turkey – 1 can black beans, drained & rinsed (to reduce sodium) – 1 bunch cilantro – 2 Tbs. chili powder – 1/4 tsp garlic powder – cayenne pepper to taste – 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper – 1/4 tsp dried oregano – 1/2 tsp paprika – 2 tsp cumin – s & p to taste

– toppings of choice: lettuce, tomato, cheese, avocado, greek yogurt, etc.(use what you have on hand!)

Process:

– Cook quinoa according to package directions.

– Warm black beans in a sauce pan over medium heat.

– Cook ground turkey over medium-high heat until cooked through.

– Wash cilantro and finely chop.

– Add 1/4 cup water, spices, 1 handful of chopped cilantro and black beans to the turkey and stir well.

– Layer your bowl with 1/4 cup quinoa, 1/4 cup turkey/bean mixture, and toppings of choice

(Tip: use plain, nonfat greek yogurt as a healthy substitute for sour cream)

This recipe is simple, cheap and healthy. A total win in my book.

It’s packed with protein and the beans provide a healthy does of fiber and antioxidants. The healthy fat from the avocado provides anti-inflamatory properties which can help to reduce your risk of disease, regulate your blood sugar and leave your skin glowing.

Enjoy!

xo,