Print

Easy Cheap and Flavor-Packed Bean and Rice Bowls Recipe for Quick Healthy Meals

bean and rice bowls - featured image
Print Recipe

A quick, budget-friendly, and flavor-packed bean and rice bowl recipe that combines pantry staples with fresh veggies and spices for a satisfying and healthy meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice (or brown rice for extra fiber)
  • 2 cups water or low-sodium vegetable broth
  • 1 can (15 oz/425g) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 small red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
  • 1/4 cup chopped red onion (optional)
  • 1 small avocado, sliced or diced
  • Fresh cilantro leaves, roughly chopped
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional)
  • Hot sauce or salsa (optional)
  • Shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack, optional)
  • Chopped jalapeños (optional)
  • Cooked chicken or tofu (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse 1 cup (200g) of rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
  2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice and 2 cups (475ml) of water or vegetable broth.
  3. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes (longer for brown rice, about 40 minutes).
  4. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes to steam. Fluff with a fork.
  5. While the rice cooks, heat a medium skillet over medium heat.
  6. Add the drained and rinsed black beans.
  7. Stir in 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/4 teaspoon chili powder (if using), and salt and pepper to taste.
  8. Cook for about 5 minutes until heated through and fragrant, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
  9. Dice the red bell pepper, chop the red onion if using, and slice the avocado.
  10. Set aside fresh cilantro and lime juice for finishing touches.
  11. Assemble the bowl by starting with a base of fluffy rice, then spoon on the seasoned beans.
  12. Add the diced bell pepper, corn, and red onion.
  13. Top with avocado slices and a generous sprinkle of chopped cilantro.
  14. Squeeze fresh lime juice over everything for a bright, tangy finish.
  15. Add optional toppings such as a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, a drizzle of hot sauce, shredded cheese, or cooked chicken or tofu if desired.

Notes

If beans seem dry while warming, add a tablespoon of water or broth to keep them creamy. Do not skip the lime juice for brightness. Fluff rice properly and let it rest covered after cooking to prevent clumping. Keep toppings separate for crowd-serving to allow customization.

Nutrition

Keywords: bean and rice bowl, quick meals, healthy meals, budget-friendly, vegetarian, vegan option, gluten-free, easy recipe

Find it online: https://lunafeast.com/easy-cheap-and-flavor-packed-bean-and-rice-bowls-recipe-for-quick-healthy-meals/