Southwest Quinoa Mason Jar Lunch

🌯 Southwest Quinoa Mason Jar Lunch

This smoky, colorful Southwest-inspired mason jar lunch is packed with plant-based protein, fiber, and zesty flavor. Roasted corn, bell peppers, black beans, and quinoa come together with a chipotle-lime vinaigrette—and a fresh hit of cilantro. It’s ideal for busy days, and it was one of the lunches I prepped for my daughter to nourish her during a stressful work transition.

🛒 Ingredients (for 3 jars)

Chipotle-Lime Vinaigrette:

• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 3 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tbsp maple syrup
• 1 tsp minced chipotle in adobo
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp salt

Main Ingredients:

• 1½ cups cooked quinoa (from ~½ cup dry)
• 1½ cups black beans, rinsed
• ¾ cup corn (fresh, frozen, or roasted)
• ¾ cup diced red bell pepper
• ¼ cup diced red onion
• 3 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
• Optional: ¾ avocado (¼ per jar, added day-of)

🥣 Instructions

1. Cook the quinoa: Rinse and cook per package instructions. Let cool.
2. Make the vinaigrette: Whisk together olive oil, lime juice, maple syrup, chipotle, garlic powder, and salt.
3. Prep the veggies: Dice red bell pepper and onion. Use thawed corn or lightly roast it in a pan.
4. Assemble jars (from bottom to top):
   • 2 tbsp chipotle-lime vinaigrette
   • ½ cup quinoa
   • ½ cup black beans
   • ~¼ cup veggie mix
   • 1 tbsp cilantro
   • Add sliced avocado day-of

🔍 Nutrition (Per 1 Jar with avocado)

• Calories: ~437
• Protein: ~12.1g
• Carbs: ~49.2g
• Fat: ~20g
  (See detailed table above)

💡 Tips

• Add a squeeze of lime and sprinkle of pumpkin seeds just before serving
• If packing for later, bring avocado separately to avoid browning
• Easily made oil-free by omitting vinaigrette and squeezing lime over the top

💛 Final Note

This Southwest jar is vibrant, filling, and full of spice—perfect for supporting energy and mood on the go. I made this for my daughter during one of her hardest weeks, and now it’s a meal I come back to when I need comfort and fuel.

Tried it? Tag me on Instagram @HealthyHerMidlife or leave a comment with your favorite variation!