Making Harvest Quinoa Salad is simple if you follow these straightforward steps:

1. Rinse Quinoa: Rinse the quinoa under cold water in a fine-mesh sieve to remove any bitterness.
2. Cook Quinoa: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa with vegetable broth or water. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is fluffy and the liquid is absorbed.
3. Prepare Vegetables: While the quinoa cooks, chop the red bell pepper, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro. Set aside in a large mixing bowl.
4. Add Corn and Beans: Stir in the corn and black beans to the bowl of vegetables.
5. Fluff Quinoa: Once cooked, fluff the quinoa with a fork and let it cool slightly before adding it to the vegetable mixture.
6. Make Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
7. Combine Ingredients: Pour the dressing over the salad mixture, tossing everything together gently to combine.
8. Add Nuts: If using, fold in the chopped nuts for additional texture and flavor.
9. Let It Chill: Allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
10. Serve: Garnish with avocado slices if desired.

By following these easy steps, you will have a delicious bowl of Harvest Quinoa Salad ready to enjoy!