High Protein Cilantro Rice

Elevate your mealtime with this refreshing and nutritious High Protein Cilantro Rice, a vibrant twist on a classic side dish. Packed with wholesome long-grain brown rice, protein-rich black beans, chickpeas, and quinoa, this recipe is both filling and flavorful. The star of the dish is the zesty cilantro-lime sauce, made with fresh cilantro, lime juice, and a drizzle of olive oil for a bright, herby kick. Quick to prep and easy to assemble, this gluten-free, plant-based dish comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. Serve it as a standalone power-packed meal or pair it with your favorite toppings for a customizable bowl full of flavor and texture.

Nutriscore Rating: 78/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:40 mins

Total Time:50 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup long-grain brown rice
• 2 cups water
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves, packed
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
• 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 2 tablespoons green onions, chopped

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the brown rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.

Step 2

In a medium saucepan, combine the rice, water, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.

Step 3

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 30-35 minutes or until the rice is tender and the water has been absorbed.

Step 4

While the rice is cooking, in a large mixing bowl, combine the black beans, chickpeas, and quinoa.

Step 5

In a food processor, combine the cilantro leaves, lime juice, olive oil, garlic powder, and black pepper. Pulse until a smooth sauce forms.

Step 6

Once the rice is cooked, remove it from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes to absorb steam. Fluff the rice with a fork.

Step 7

Add the cooked rice to the mixing bowl with the beans, chickpeas, and quinoa. Gently toss to combine.

Step 8

Pour the cilantro sauce over the rice mixture and mix until all the ingredients are well coated.

Step 9

Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

Step 10

Serve warm as a high-protein side dish or a base for your favorite protein-rich toppings.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1631.2 grams (1631.2g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1211

Total Fat 27.30g	35%
Saturated Fat 3.70g	19%
Polyunsaturated Fat 1.30g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 2728mg	119%
Total Carbohydrate 196.60g	71%
Dietary Fiber 46.80g	167%
Total Sugars 16.50g
Protein 52.40g	105%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 458mg	35%
Iron 19mg	104%
Potassium 2981mg	63%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 19.8%

Protein: 16.9%

Carbs: 63.3%