This fresh, Caribbean-inspired quinoa bowl was a big hit when first featured in August 2016. Topped with avocado, black beans, corn and a sweet, tangy pineapple dressing, it is full of creative flavors and textures that will have you dreaming of warm weather.
Cook quinoa - (Skip if quinoa was made ahead for Tuesday.) Combine quinoa with 2x the amount of water (or stock if you prefer) in a saucepan. Add in some salt. Bring to a boil covered. Lower heat, keep covered, and cook until liquid is absorbed, 8 to 10 minutes. (Can be done up to 5 days ahead)
Make dressing - Cube pineapple. Combine jalapenos, pineapple cubes, yogurt, and lime juice in a blender. Blend until smooth. (Can be done up to 3 days ahead)
Heat a nonstick pan over medium-high heat. Add oil (the portion for plantains) and then plantain slices to heated oil. (Cook in batches if your pan isn't large enough to hold all of the slices without overlapping.) Sear plantains until golden brown and tender, 3 to 4 minutes on each side. Just before the plantains finish cooking, season on both sides with Jerk seasoning.
Set plantains aside and return pan to heat. Add oil (portion for the bowls) and then beans and corn. Saute until corn starts to char and blacken in spots, 3 to 4 minutes.
If quinoa was made ahead, reheat it in the microwave.
Assemble bowls by topping quinoa with plantains, beans and corn, avocado slices, and cilantro. Drizzle pineapple dressing over top and enjoy!