Black Beans Rice and Veggies Recipe for Easy Healthy Meals

If you’re craving a hearty, wholesome meal that’s packed with flavor and nutrition, this black beans, rice, and veggies recipe is sure to satisfy. Combining protein-rich black beans with fluffy rice and a vibrant medley of vegetables, this dish is a perfect example of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly delicious.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian, vegan, or simply looking to add more plant-based meals to your week, this recipe is versatile, easy to make, and budget-friendly.

With a balance of textures and a colorful palette of fresh veggies, this recipe is not only nourishing but visually appealing. It’s ideal for meal prep, quick dinners, or even a satisfying lunch.

Plus, it’s gluten-free and can be easily customized to suit your taste buds. So, get ready to bring some warmth and comfort to your table with this classic yet flavorful dish that celebrates wholesome, plant-powered goodness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This black beans, rice, and veggies recipe is a true crowd-pleaser for many reasons. First, it’s incredibly nutritious, offering a great source of fiber, protein, and essential vitamins from the vegetables.

It’s also naturally vegan and gluten-free, catering to many dietary preferences without compromising on taste.

The recipe is highly adaptable. You can easily switch up the vegetables based on what’s in season or what you have on hand.

It’s a fantastic one-pot meal, making cleanup a breeze and perfect for busy weeknights. Moreover, the combination of spices used enhances the depth of flavor, making each bite satisfying and comforting.

Lastly, it’s budget-friendly and uses pantry staples, making it accessible for everyone. For more wholesome recipes, check out our A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion or explore Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals for more inspiration.

Ingredients

• 1 cup long-grain white or brown rice
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
• 1 medium carrot, diced
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for heat)
• 2 cups vegetable broth or water
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Juice of 1 lime (optional, for serving)

Equipment

• Medium saucepan with lid
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Colander or sieve (for rinsing beans)

Instructions

1. Prepare the rice: Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and helps prevent clumping.
2. Cook the rice: In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of vegetable broth or water to a boil. Add the rinsed rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes (or according to package instructions) until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes.
3. Sauté the aromatics: While the rice cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
4. Add garlic and veggies: Stir in the minced garlic, diced bell pepper, carrot, and corn. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
5. Season the veggies: Sprinkle in the cumin, smoked paprika, and chili powder (if using). Stir well to coat the vegetables with the spices. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
6. Add the black beans: Stir in the rinsed black beans and cook for 3-4 minutes until heated through. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
7. Combine rice and veggies: Gently fold the cooked rice into the vegetable and bean mixture, ensuring everything is evenly combined and heated through.
8. Serve: Spoon the mixture into bowls, garnish with fresh cilantro, and drizzle with lime juice if desired. Enjoy warm!

Tips & Variations

For an extra protein boost, add some cooked quinoa or your favorite ancient grain instead of rice.

Try swapping out the vegetables depending on the season—zucchini, spinach, or kale work beautifully here.

If you like your dishes spicy, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce when sautéing the veggies.

For a smoky twist, try using chipotle powder or check out our Chilli Powder Recipe Vegan: Easy Homemade Spice Blend to make your own spice mix at home.

If you want to turn this into a meal prep favorite, it stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days and reheats beautifully. Add avocado slices or vegan sour cream on top for added creaminess.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This dish is wonderfully versatile when it comes to serving. For a complete meal, serve it with a side of warm corn tortillas or a crisp green salad for freshness.

You can also turn it into a bowl with toppings such as sliced avocado, diced tomatoes, or a sprinkle of vegan cheese. For a festive touch, add a dollop of vegan sour cream or a drizzle of salsa verde.

Looking for another bowl idea? Check out our Vegan Chipotle Bowl Recipe for a Flavorful Healthy Meal for more inspiration.

Conclusion

This black beans, rice, and veggies recipe is a perfect blend of simplicity, nutrition, and flavor. It’s a meal that fits seamlessly into busy lifestyles, offering comfort without the fuss.

The combination of protein-packed black beans, wholesome rice, and fresh, colorful vegetables creates a balanced dish that’s both filling and delightful.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, this recipe can be adapted to suit any taste or dietary need. It’s also a wonderful gateway to exploring more vegetarian and vegan meals — be sure to check out Best Vegetarian Recipes No Dairy for Delicious Meals for more creative ideas.

Enjoy the warmth and nourishment of this dish today, and let it inspire you to make more plant-based meals that are both easy and delicious!

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