Warm Quinoa Salad with Cilantro and Kidney Beans

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
1 medium-large red onion, coarsely chopped
1 red bell pepper, cored, seeded, and diced
1 yellow bell pepper, cored, seeded, and diced
1 cup dry white quinoa
1 1/2 teaspoons smoked paprika
3/4 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon salt or more to taste
1 1/2 cup of vegetable or chicken broth (water can be substituted)
1 cup dried kidney beans, soaked overnight, rinsed well and pre-cooked
1/2 cup fresh cilantro
4 cups spinach
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
Lime for garnish

In a medium saucepan, heat the oil on medium heat. Add the onion and bell peppers. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften, about 5 minutes. Add the quinoa, paprika, cumin, chili powder, and salt; stir to combine. Add 1 1/2 cups broth or water and increase the heat to high. Bring to a boil. Cover and reduce the heat to medium low. Simmer, covered, until the quinoa is almost soft and most of the water is absorbed, about 15 minutes. Add the beans and half the cilantro; cook until they are heated through, uncovered, and no water remains, about 3-4 minutes. Serve on a bed of spinach and scatter the feta and remaining cilantro on top. Garnish with lime wedges. Serves 6.

Recipe adapted from
50 Best Plants on the Planet: The Most Nutrient-Dense Fruits and Vegetables, in 150 Delicious Recipes by Cathy Thomas.