If you’re looking for a light, bright, and satisfying salad that doesn’t feel like diet food, this Cilantro Lime Quinoa Salad with White Beans is a total game-changer. It’s fresh, zesty, herbaceous, and packed with plant-based protein to keep you full and energized.

With fluffy quinoa, creamy white beans, crunchy cucumber, and a tangy cilantro-lime dressing, every bite bursts with flavor and texture. It’s perfect for meal prep, potlucks, or a quick weeknight lunch—and it just so happens to be vegan and gluten-free, too.

Cilantro Lime Quinoa Salad with White Beans

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Loaded with flavor – The lime and fresh herbs make it ultra-refreshing.
Nutrient-rich – Packed with plant-based protein, fiber, and healthy carbs.
Great for meal prep – It gets even better after a day in the fridge.
Vegan & gluten-free – Naturally allergy-friendly with no substitutions needed.
Quick to prepare – Minimal chopping, easy dressing, and ready in 30 minutes.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find a full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below)

1 cup quinoa, uncooked
Pinch of salt
½ cup fresh cilantro (with stems)
1 scallion, ends removed
1–2 cloves garlic, crushed
¼ cup plain unsweetened plant-based yogurt (or extra virgin olive oil)
Zest of 1 lime
Juice of 2 limes
½ tsp ground coriander
1 tbsp white wine vinegar
1 tbsp maple syrup
1 (15 oz) can white beans, rinsed and drained
⅓ cup red onion, finely diced
½ cucumber, deseeded and chopped

Instructions

1. Cook the Quinoa
Cook quinoa according to package directions, typically using 2 cups of water for 1 cup of quinoa. Add a pinch of salt to the water. Once cooked, fluff with a fork and set aside to cool.

2. Make the Cilantro Lime Dressing
In a food processor or blender, combine cilantro, scallion, garlic, plant-based yogurt (or olive oil), lime zest and juice, coriander, white wine vinegar, and maple syrup. Blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust to taste if needed.

3. Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, combine cooled quinoa, white beans, diced red onion, and chopped cucumber. Toss gently to mix.

4. Dress the Salad
Pour the cilantro lime dressing over the quinoa mixture. Toss everything together until evenly coated.

5. Season & Serve
Taste and season with salt and black pepper as desired. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Variations

Add greens – Toss in baby spinach, arugula, or chopped kale.
Make it spicy – Add chopped jalapeño or a dash of cayenne to the dressing.
Swap the beans – Chickpeas, black beans, or edamame work well too.
Add avocado – Dice and add just before serving for creaminess.
Grain swap – Use farro, bulgur, or couscous if quinoa isn’t your thing.

Storage & Reheating

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Do not freeze: The fresh herbs and cucumber don’t hold up well in the freezer.
Best served cold: Enjoy straight from the fridge or at room temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this quinoa salad vegan?

Yes, it’s naturally vegan—no swaps needed.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Absolutely. It actually tastes better after a few hours in the fridge.

What kind of white beans should I use?

Cannellini or navy beans are best, but great northern beans work too.

Can I use bottled lime juice?

Fresh is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled can work in a pinch.

What if I don’t have a food processor?

You can finely chop the dressing ingredients and whisk them with the yogurt or oil.

How do I keep the cucumber from getting soggy?

Deseeding the cucumber helps. Add it just before serving if storing for a few days.

Is this salad good for picnics or potlucks?

Yes, it travels well and holds up beautifully at room temperature.

What’s a good protein boost?

Add tofu, tempeh, or grilled chicken if not keeping it vegan.

Can I use olive oil instead of yogurt?

Yes, use a good-quality extra virgin olive oil if you prefer.

How do I make this nut-free and allergy-friendly?

The recipe is naturally nut-free, gluten-free, and dairy-free (if using yogurt alternative).

Conclusion

This Cilantro Lime Quinoa Salad with White Beans is everything a good salad should be—fresh, hearty, and exploding with vibrant flavor. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or need a refreshing side dish for your next gathering, this salad is always a hit. It’s proof that healthy eating doesn’t need to be bland or boring.

Chef sara