Quick and Delicious Rice and Bean Dish
This Quick and Delicious Rice and Bean Dish is a hearty and nutritious meal that can be prepared in no time. If you’re looking for a simple dinner option that is full of flavor and comes together quickly, this recipe is perfect for you. With just a few ingredients and easy steps, you can create a meal that’s both satisfying and good for you.
Why Make This Recipe
There are many reasons to make this quick rice and bean dish. First, it is a budget-friendly meal that offers great value for your money. Rice and beans are both economical staples that provide a good source of protein and fiber. This meal is also versatile; you can serve it as a main dish, a side, or even use it as a filling for burritos or tacos.
Additionally, this recipe is incredibly simple to make, which means it’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want something quick yet nourishing. Plus, it’s adaptable! You can throw in any leftover vegetables you have in your fridge or adjust the spices to suit your taste.
How to Make Quick and Delicious Rice and Bean Dish
When you’re ready to whip up this Quick and Delicious Rice and Bean Dish, here’s everything you need and how to make it.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of rice (white or brown)
- 2 cups of water or broth
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup of canned black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup of corn, frozen or canned
- 1 teaspoon of cumin
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Directions:
Rinse the Rice: Start by rinsing the rice under cold water. Keep rinsing until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and keeps the rice from becoming sticky.
Cook the Rice: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice and 2 cups of water or broth. Add a pinch of salt for flavor. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the saucepan and let it simmer. White rice will take about 15-20 minutes, while brown rice will take 40-45 minutes. Once the rice is cooked, let it sit, covered, for another 5 minutes to finish steaming.
Sauté the Vegetables: While the rice is cooking, grab a large skillet. Heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent.
Add Garlic and Bell Pepper: Stir in the minced garlic and the chopped bell pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the bell pepper to soften.
Incorporate Beans and Corn: Add the canned black beans and corn to the skillet. Cook for about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until everything is heated through.
Season the Mixture: Sprinkle in the cumin and paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Combine with Rice: Fluff the cooked rice with a fork, and gently fold it into the skillet with the vegetable mixture. Mix well, being careful not to mash the rice.
Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. Serve the dish warm.
How to Serve Quick and Delicious Rice and Bean Dish
This Quick and Delicious Rice and Bean Dish can be served in a variety of ways. For a simple meal, scoop it into bowls and enjoy as is. You can also serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish for added protein. For a fun twist, try using the mixture as a filling for burritos or tacos. Just spoon the rice and bean mixture into a tortilla, add some cheese, and roll it up!
If you’d like to offer a bit of crunch, consider serving the dish with tortilla chips on the side. You can also complement your meal with a fresh salad or guacamole for extra flavor and freshness.
How to Store Quick and Delicious Rice and Bean Dish
If you have any leftovers from your Quick and Delicious Rice and Bean Dish, storing them is easy. Place the cooled dish in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
When you’re ready to eat leftovers, reheat them in the microwave or on the stove until warmed through. If you find the dish is a bit dry after refrigerating, you can add a splash of broth or water while reheating.
For longer storage, consider freezing the dish. Pack it into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags and lay them flat in the freezer. The dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Tips to Make Quick and Delicious Rice and Bean Dish
Customize the Spices: If you like a bit of heat, add some chili powder or diced jalapeños to the mix. You can also experiment with other spices like oregano or coriander to suit your taste.
Use Vegetable Broth: For extra flavor, opt for vegetable broth instead of water when cooking the rice. This will enhance the overall taste of the dish.
Add More Veggies: Feel free to incorporate more vegetables, such as spinach, zucchini, or tomatoes. Adding them will not only increase the nutritional content but also give the dish more texture.
Make it Cheesy: If you’re a fan of cheese, stir in some shredded cheese just before serving. Cheddar or Monterey Jack works well.
Perfect Rice Cooking: Always remember to let the rice sit covered for a few minutes after cooking. This helps make sure the grains don’t clump together.
Variations
Southwestern Version: Add diced avocado, lime juice, and chopped green onions for a refreshing Southwestern twist.
Mexican Style: Mix in some taco seasoning instead of cumin and paprika for a flavorful kick. Top with sour cream or guacamole.
Mediterranean Influence: Swap out black beans for chickpeas and add diced tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese for a Mediterranean flair.
FAQs
Can I use frozen rice?
Yes, you can use frozen rice. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package. You can add the frozen rice directly into the skillet with the vegetable mixture.
Can I make this dish vegan?
Absolutely! The ingredients in this dish are already vegan. Just make sure to use plant-based butter or oil when cooking.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
This dish is naturally gluten-free, as all the ingredients listed are free from gluten. Just ensure your broth is also gluten-free if you decide to use it.
What can I serve this dish with?
This rice and bean dish pairs well with grilled meats, fish, or can be enjoyed as part of a plant-based meal. It’s also delicious on its own!
How do I know when the rice is done?
Rice is done when it has absorbed most of the water and the grains are tender. For white rice, it generally takes about 15-20 minutes, while brown rice requires around 40-45 minutes.
Enjoy making your Quick and Delicious Rice and Bean Dish! It’s a meal that brings everyone to the table and can be enjoyed in so many ways. Happy cooking!
Print
Quick and Delicious Rice and Bean Dish
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A hearty and nutritious meal that’s quick to prepare, featuring rice, black beans, and colorful vegetables.
Ingredients
- 1 cup of rice (white or brown)
- 2 cups of water or broth
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup of canned black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup of corn, frozen or canned
- 1 teaspoon of cumin
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice and 2 cups of water or broth with a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer. White rice takes about 15-20 minutes; brown rice takes 40-45 minutes. Let sit covered for 5 minutes after cooking.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
- Stir in minced garlic and chopped bell pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.
- Add black beans and corn, cooking for 3-5 minutes until heated through.
- Sprinkle in cumin and paprika, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well.
- Fluff the cooked rice and gently fold it into the skillet with the vegetables.
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
Customize with your favorite spices or add additional vegetables for more nutrition.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 65g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 5mg