Description
A vibrant and wholesome Very Veggie Rice and Beans dish packed with fresh vegetables, black beans, and flavorful spices. This quick and easy recipe comes together in just 15 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight meal that’s nutritious and satisfying.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 Sweet Vidalia onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup frozen corn
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Others
- Olive oil (about 1-2 tablespoons)
- 1 can (15 oz) cooked black beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Juice of 1 lime
Instructions
- Heat the oil: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat to prepare for sautéing the vegetables.
- Sauté the onion: Add the diced sweet Vidalia onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until it becomes soft and fragrant, creating a flavor base.
- Add bell pepper and carrots: Stir in the diced red bell pepper and shredded carrots; cook for 3–4 minutes until they become just tender while retaining some crunch.
- Add frozen veggies and beans: Mix in the frozen corn, peas, drained black beans, and cooked white rice into the skillet.
- Season and heat through: Sprinkle cumin, optional cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper over the mixture. Stir well and cook for an additional 3–5 minutes until everything is heated through and the flavors meld.
- Finish with fresh ingredients: Remove the skillet from heat, then stir in sliced green onions, chopped cilantro, and fresh lime juice to add brightness and freshness.
- Serve warm: Dish out the veggie rice and beans warm and enjoy this colorful and nutritious meal.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, increase the cayenne pepper according to taste.
- Use brown rice instead of white rice for added fiber and a nuttier flavor.
- Can easily be adapted to vegan by ensuring the rice and cooking oil used are plant-based.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Adding a squeeze of lime just before serving enhances the flavors significantly.
