Zesty Refried Beans

Get ready to elevate your side dish game with these Zesty Refried Beans—a quick and flavorful twist on a classic! Packed with canned pinto beans, aromatic spices like cumin and chili powder, and a kick of fresh jalapeño, this recipe bursts with bold, Southwestern-inspired flavor. A splash of lime juice adds a refreshing tang, while a silky blend of olive oil and veggie broth creates the perfect creamy texture. Best of all, it's an easy, one-pan wonder that comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings. Garnish with fresh cilantro and your favorite toppings like shredded cheese or sour cream for a vibrant and satisfying dish that's perfect for tacos, burrito bowls, or as a standalone dip. Whether you're looking for a healthier homemade option or a fresh take on a Mexican-inspired side, these zesty refried beans are sure to impress!

Nutriscore Rating: 80/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 cups canned pinto beans
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 0.5 cup white onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic cloves, minced
• 1 piece jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 0.5 teaspoon chili powder
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• 0.5 cup water or vegetable broth
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
• 0 as needed optional toppings (e.g., shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, or sour cream)

Directions

Step 1

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Step 2

Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until softened and translucent.

Step 3

Stir in the minced garlic and chopped jalapeño and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.

Step 4

Mix in the ground cumin and chili powder, stirring well to combine.

Step 5

Add the canned pinto beans (including their liquid) to the skillet and mash the beans with the back of a spoon or a potato masher, leaving some chunks for texture.

Step 6

Pour in the water or vegetable broth, stirring to achieve a creamy consistency. Add more liquid if needed to reach your desired texture.

Step 7

Stir in the fresh lime juice and salt, adjusting seasoning to taste.

Step 8

Cook for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors meld and the mixture thickens.

Step 9

Remove from heat and garnish with fresh chopped cilantro.

Step 10

Serve warm, topped with optional toppings like shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, or sour cream, if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	784.7 grams (784.7g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	766

Total Fat 39.80g	51%
Saturated Fat 10.80g	54%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.70g
Cholesterol 30mg	10%
Sodium 2954mg	128%
Total Carbohydrate 83.60g	30%
Dietary Fiber 24.90g	89%
Total Sugars 6.70g
Protein 31.20g	62%

Vitamin D 6IU	30%
Calcium 414mg	32%
Iron 9mg	51%
Potassium 1784mg	38%

*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: 43.8%

Protein: 15.3%

Carbs: 40.9%