Spicy Black Bean and Turkey Power Bowl

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth or water
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 lb lean ground turkey (93% lean)
• 1 small red bell pepper, diced
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 avocado, sliced
• Juice of 1 lime
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions

1. Prepare the quinoa: In a medium saucepan, bring chicken broth or water to a boil. Add rinsed quinoa, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and quinoa is fluffy. Remove from heat and let sit covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
2. While quinoa cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced onions and bell pepper, sauté until softened, about 4-5 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes.
5. Stir in chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Mix well to coat the turkey and veggies evenly.
6. Add drained black beans and cook until heated through, about 2-3 minutes. Adjust seasoning if needed.
7. Divide cooked quinoa evenly among four bowls. Top each with spiced turkey and bean mixture.
8. Garnish bowls with halved cherry tomatoes, sliced avocado, chopped cilantro, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice before serving.

Chef tips

• For a vegetarian version, substitute ground turkey with crumbled firm tofu or cooked lentils and omit chicken broth, using vegetable broth instead.
• If you prefer less heat, omit the crushed red pepper flakes or reduce chili powder.
• Day-old leftover quinoa works great here for quick assembly, making this recipe perfect for meal prep.
• Rinsing quinoa before cooking removes its bitter coating and improves texture.