Zesty Black Beans on White Rice

Transform your weeknight meals with this vibrant and flavorful Zesty Black Beans on White Rice recipe. This dish combines tender, fluffy white rice with a zesty black bean and tomato medley that’s packed with smoky spices like cumin, smoked paprika, and chili powder. Sautéed onions and garlic form the aromatic base, while a splash of fresh lime juice adds a bright, tangy finish. Garnished with fresh cilantro and creamy avocado slices, this quick and easy recipe is not only budget-friendly but also perfect for vegetarians or anyone craving a hearty, wholesome meal. Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s a versatile option for a satisfying dinner or meal prep.

Nutriscore Rating: 77/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup white rice
• 2 cups water
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium (diced) yellow onion
• 3 cloves (minced) garlic
• 15 ounces (canned, drained and rinsed) black beans
• 14.5 ounces (canned) diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 0.25 cup (chopped, optional) fresh cilantro
• 1 (optional, for garnish) avocado

Directions

Step 1

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

Step 2

In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of white rice with 2 cups of water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.

Step 3

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed. Remove from heat and keep covered to let it steam for an additional 5 minutes.

Step 4

While the rice cooks, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Step 5

Add the diced onion to the skillet and sauté for 4-5 minutes, or until softened and translucent.

Step 6

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 7

Add the drained and rinsed black beans and the diced tomatoes (with their juices) to the skillet. Stir to mix.

Step 8

Sprinkle in the cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, and salt. Stir well to evenly coat the beans and tomatoes with the spices.

Step 9

Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 10

Stir in 2 tablespoons of lime juice and adjust seasoning with more salt or spices if desired.

Step 11

Fluff the rice with a fork and divide it among serving plates or bowls.

Step 12

Spoon the zesty black beans over the rice and garnish with fresh cilantro and sliced avocado, if using.

Step 13

Serve warm and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1783.6 grams (1783.6g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1015

Total Fat 34.40g	44%
Saturated Fat 4.70g	24%
Polyunsaturated Fat 3.20g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 3043mg	132%
Total Carbohydrate 152.40g	55%
Dietary Fiber 42.60g	152%
Total Sugars 20.70g
Protein 35.30g	71%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 466mg	36%
Iron 12mg	68%
Potassium 1707mg	36%

*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: 29.2%

Protein: 13.3%

Carbs: 57.5%