Bean Veggie Rice Bowl Recipe for a Healthy Quick Meal

If you’re looking for a wholesome, vibrant, and nutrient-packed meal, this Bean Veggie Rice Bowl recipe is exactly what you need. Combining the hearty goodness of beans with fresh vegetables and fluffy rice, this bowl is not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying.

Perfect for lunch or dinner, it’s a versatile dish that caters to vegans, vegetarians, and anyone wanting to eat more plant-based foods. The layers of flavors—from the creamy beans to the crisp veggies—make every bite exciting and fulfilling.

This recipe is super simple to customize based on what you have in your pantry and fridge. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or cooking up something fresh in under 30 minutes, this bowl checks all the boxes for a quick, nutritious, and colorful meal.

Plus, it’s an excellent way to sneak in more vegetables and fiber to your diet without compromising on taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This bean veggie rice bowl offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The beans provide a rich source of plant-based protein, while the fresh vegetables add crunch and vibrant colors.

The rice acts as a comforting base that ties everything together beautifully.

It’s a one-bowl meal that’s easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and highly customizable. Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or just starting to explore plant-based meals, this recipe is approachable and forgiving.

You can swap beans, add different veggies, or change the seasoning to suit your taste buds.

Moreover, this dish is packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it a nourishing choice for your overall health and wellness. It’s perfect for meal prep, quick weeknight dinners, or even a vibrant lunch to take to work or school.

Ingredients

• 1 cup brown rice (or white rice if preferred)
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 medium carrot, shredded or julienned
• 1 cup chopped spinach or kale
• 1 small red onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Juice of 1 lime
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional garnish)
• Optional toppings: avocado slices, salsa, or vegan sour cream

Equipment

• Medium saucepan with lid (for cooking rice)
• Large skillet or frying pan
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Mixing spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Bowl for serving

Instructions

1. Cook the rice: Rinse 1 cup of brown rice under cold water. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice with 2 cups of water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for 40-45 minutes or until tender and water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
2. Sauté the aromatics: While the rice cooks, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped red onion, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
3. Add the vegetables: Stir in the diced red bell pepper, shredded carrot, and corn. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables soften but still maintain a bit of crunch.
4. Season the beans and veggies: Add the rinsed black beans to the skillet along with 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir well to combine and cook for another 3-4 minutes until everything is heated through.
5. Incorporate the greens: Add the chopped spinach or kale to the skillet and cook for 2 minutes until wilted and vibrant green.
6. Finish the flavor: Squeeze the juice of one lime over the mixture and stir. Adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Assemble the bowl: Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and divide it between serving bowls. Spoon the bean and veggie mixture over the rice.
8. Garnish and serve: Top with chopped fresh cilantro, avocado slices, salsa, or vegan sour cream if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

Tip: Use leftover rice or beans to save time and make this recipe even quicker to prepare on busy days.

You can easily swap out the black beans for kidney beans, chickpeas, or pinto beans depending on your preference or what you have on hand. Similarly, try different vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or tomatoes to keep the bowl exciting each time you make it.

For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce. If you love smoky flavors, a dash of chipotle powder works wonderfully—check out our Chilli Powder Recipe Vegan: Easy Homemade Spice Blend for inspiration.

If you want to make this bowl a complete meal, consider adding some toasted nuts or seeds for crunch, or a dollop of your favorite vegan cheese sauce. For more hearty grain options, explore our Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This bean veggie rice bowl is wonderfully versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides or toppings. For a fresh crunch, serve alongside a simple cucumber and tomato salad dressed with lemon juice and olive oil.

If you’re craving something creamy, avocado slices or a drizzle of vegan ranch dressing elevate the bowl beautifully. For warmth and a spicy twist, add a spoonful of homemade salsa or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes.

For a more filling option, serve this bowl with a side of warm, crusty bread or some baked tortilla chips. Looking for more delicious bowl recipes?

Check out our Asian Vegetarian Rice Bowl Recipes for Easy Healthy Meals for more inspiration.

Conclusion

The Bean Veggie Rice Bowl is a fantastic recipe that blends simplicity with nutrition and flavor. It’s an ideal meal for anyone looking to add more plant-based dishes to their routine without spending hours in the kitchen.

This recipe is flexible, wholesome, and packed with ingredients that nourish your body while delighting your taste buds.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, feeding a family, or meal prepping for the week, this rice bowl will become a staple in your recipe collection. It’s easy to make, budget-conscious, and endlessly adaptable—a true winner for busy days and casual dinners alike.

For more exciting vegetarian recipes, be sure to explore our extensive collection like A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion and enjoy the journey of plant-based cooking with delicious, healthy meals!

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