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Easy Flavor-Packed Rice & Beans Dinner Recipe for Quick Healthy Meals

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A quick, easy, and flavorful rice and beans dinner that comes together in under 30 minutes using simple pantry staples. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish is wholesome, satisfying, and packed with vibrant spices and fresh herbs.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice (200 g)
  • 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed (15 oz / 425 g)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • 2 cups vegetable broth (475 ml)
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • A small handful fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Rinse the rice under cold water in a fine mesh strainer until the water runs clear, about 1-2 minutes.
  2. In a medium saucepan, combine rinsed rice and 2 cups vegetable broth. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes without lifting the lid.
  3. While the rice cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. Add minced garlic, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and chili powder to the skillet. Cook for 1-2 minutes until spices bloom and aroma develops, lowering heat if garlic browns too fast.
  5. Drain and rinse the black beans thoroughly. Add beans to the skillet and stir to combine evenly with onion and spices.
  6. Once rice is done, fluff gently with a fork. Transfer rice to the skillet with beans and stir well to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Remove skillet from heat. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the mixture and sprinkle chopped cilantro. Toss gently to combine flavors.
  8. Serve hot, optionally topped with sour cream or sliced avocado.

Notes

Rinsing the rice removes excess starch and prevents mushiness. Cook spices in oil to release full aroma. Drain and rinse canned beans to avoid metallic or salty flavors. Add a splash of broth or water if rice seems dry when combining with beans. Fresh lime juice and cilantro brighten the dish and should not be skipped.

Nutrition

Keywords: rice and beans, quick dinner, healthy meals, vegan, gluten-free, easy recipe, weeknight dinner, plant-based protein

Find it online: https://siennaspoon.com/easy-flavor-packed-rice-and-beans-dinner-recipe-for-quick-healthy-meals/