Beans Rice Frozen Vegetables Recipe for Quick Healthy Meals

When it comes to quick, nutritious, and budget-friendly meals, few dishes compare to a hearty bowl of beans, rice, and frozen vegetables. This simple yet versatile combination brings together wholesome ingredients that are pantry staples in many households.

Whether you’re a busy professional, a student, or just looking for an easy weeknight dinner, this recipe offers a satisfying meal packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins. Plus, it’s incredibly adaptable—you can swap in your favorite beans, mix different frozen veggies, or tweak the seasonings to suit your taste.

In this blog post, I’ll guide you through a straightforward recipe for beans, rice, and frozen vegetables that’s perfect for anyone who wants a healthy, delicious, and fuss-free meal. Along the way, I’ll share some tips to elevate the flavors and variations to keep this dish exciting every time you make it.

Ready to dive in? Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This beans, rice, and frozen vegetables recipe is a powerhouse of nutrition and simplicity. It’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy days when you want something wholesome without spending hours in the kitchen.

The ingredients are affordable and easy to find, plus the dish is naturally vegan and gluten-free, accommodating a variety of dietary needs.

Frozen vegetables add a convenient way to get a range of nutrients year-round, while beans provide a satisfying dose of plant-based protein and fiber. The recipe is highly adaptable—you can customize it with your favorite spices or add-ins to keep it fresh.

Whether you’re meal prepping or whipping up a last-minute dinner, this recipe is a dependable crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

• 1 cup long-grain white rice (or brown rice for a nuttier flavor)
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn, green beans, or your choice)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups vegetable broth or water
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
• Juice of half a lime (optional, for freshness)

Equipment

• Medium saucepan with lid
• Large skillet or frying pan
• Cutting board and knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Colander (for rinsing beans)

Instructions

1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming sticky.
2. In a medium saucepan, bring the 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 the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
3. While the rice cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.
4. Add the minced garlic, ground cumin, and smoked paprika to the skillet. Stir and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
5. Add the frozen mixed vegetables to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are heated through and tender.
6. Stir in the drained and rinsed black beans. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, allowing the beans to warm up and absorb the flavors.
7. Season the vegetable and bean mixture with salt and black pepper to taste. If desired, squeeze fresh lime juice over the mixture for a bright, zesty finish.
8. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and transfer it to a serving bowl. Top the rice with the bean and vegetable mixture.
9. Garnish with fresh cilantro if you like, and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

“Using vegetable broth instead of water adds extra flavor to the rice, making this simple meal even more delicious!”

– Swap the beans: Use kidney beans, chickpeas, or pinto beans if black beans aren’t your favorite. Each adds a unique flavor and texture.

– Spice it up: Add a pinch of chili powder or cayenne pepper for heat. For a smoky twist, try chipotle powder—check out our Chilli Powder Recipe Vegan for a homemade blend.

– Use different rice: Brown rice, jasmine rice, or even quinoa work well to change the texture and nutrition profile.

– Add extras: Toss in some diced tomatoes, corn kernels, or sliced olives for more variety.

– Meal prep friendly: This recipe stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days and can be frozen for longer storage.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This beans, rice, and frozen vegetables dish is perfect as a standalone meal thanks to its balanced nutrition. However, you can also serve it alongside:

• A fresh green salad with a zesty vinaigrette
• Warm, crusty whole-grain bread or naan
• A dollop of guacamole or fresh salsa for added creaminess and flavor
• Pickled jalapeños or hot sauce for those who love a kick

For a more indulgent version, try topping with vegan cheese or a drizzle of tahini sauce. If you’re looking for more plant-based meal ideas, check out our A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion or explore Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals.

Conclusion

This beans, rice, and frozen vegetables recipe is a shining example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a comforting, nutritious meal. It’s perfect for anyone seeking quick preparation without sacrificing flavor or health benefits.

The beauty of this dish lies in its flexibility—you can tweak the ingredients and spices to your liking, ensuring it never gets boring.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or meal prepping for the week, this recipe offers a satisfying blend of protein, fiber, and vitamins that will keep you energized and content. Plus, it’s a fantastic base recipe you can build upon by exploring other plant-based dishes like our Vegan Chipotle Bowl Recipe for a Flavorful Healthy Meal.

Happy cooking and enjoy your delicious, wholesome meal!

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