Spicy Black Bean and Quinoa Soup: A Protein-Packed, Flavorful Comfort Dish

 Spicy Black Bean and Quinoa Soup: A Protein-Packed, Flavorful Comfort Dish

This spicy black bean and quinoa soup is a wholesome, hearty dish perfect for chilly evenings or when you’re craving something nourishing yet satisfying. Loaded with protein-packed quinoa, vibrant vegetables, and a kick of spice, this soup is a balanced meal in a bowl. It’s not only easy to prepare but also highly adaptable, making it a fantastic addition to your weekly menu.

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Why You’ll Love This Soup

• Healthy and Hearty: Packed with fiber, protein, and veggies.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples and fresh produce.
• Quick to Cook: Ready in under an hour for a comforting meal.

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Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 2 stalks celery, chopped
• 1 carrot, chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust for spice level)
• 2 (15-ounce) cans low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian option)
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/2 cup quinoa
• 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes with juice
• 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained
• 1 cup frozen corn
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Sauté the Vegetables

• Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
• Add the chopped onion, celery, and carrot. Cook and stir until the onion becomes translucent and the celery and carrot are tender (about 3 to 5 minutes).
• Stir in the garlic, paprika, and red pepper flakes. Cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

2. Add Quinoa and Broth

• Pour in the chicken broth, water, and quinoa.
• Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low.
• Cover and let cook for about 20 minutes, or until the quinoa is tender.

3. Add Remaining Ingredients

• Stir in the diced tomatoes with their juice, drained black beans, and frozen corn.
• Bring the soup back to a gentle simmer and cook uncovered for about 5 minutes, until the black beans and corn are heated through.

4. Season and Serve

• Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper as desired.
• Serve hot, garnished with your favorite toppings like fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime, or a dollop of sour cream if desired.

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Cook’s Notes

• Bean Swaps: Substitute black beans with red kidney beans, pinto beans, or cannellini beans for variety.
• Add Protein: While this soup is vegetarian-friendly, you can add cooked chicken, turkey, or ground beef for a meatier version.
• Spice Level: Adjust the red pepper flakes to suit your heat tolerance. You can also add a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.

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Serving Suggestions

• Pair this soup with crusty bread, cornbread, or a side salad for a complete meal.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.

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This spicy black bean and quinoa soup is a delicious way to enjoy a healthy, warming meal. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a nourishing lunch, this soup will leave you feeling satisfied and energized. Try it today!