Best Cheap Rice Beans Veggies Recipe for Quick Meals

If you’re looking for a hearty, nutritious, and wallet-friendly meal, you can’t go wrong with a classic dish that combines rice, beans, and fresh vegetables. This best cheap rice beans veggies recipe is perfect for anyone who wants a simple, satisfying meal without breaking the bank.

Whether you’re a busy student, a family on a budget, or just someone who loves wholesome comfort food, this recipe is a winner. It’s packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins to keep you energized and full throughout the day.

This recipe is incredibly versatile, easy to prepare, and uses ingredients that are commonly found in most kitchens. Plus, it’s vegan and gluten-free, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.

Best of all, it’s delicious and colorful, making every bite a delight. Let’s dive into how you can whip up this nutritious meal in no time, while keeping costs low and flavor high.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This rice, beans, and veggies recipe is a perfect balance of taste, nutrition, and affordability. Here’s why it’s a must-try:

• Budget-friendly: Uses inexpensive pantry staples like dried beans and rice.
• Nutritious: Beans provide plant-based protein and fiber, while veggies add vitamins and minerals.
• Easy to customize: Swap in your favorite vegetables or spices to suit your taste.
• One-pot convenience: Minimal cleanup and simple cooking process.
• Great for meal prep: Keeps well in the fridge for several days and reheats beautifully.

Ingredients

• 1 cup long-grain white rice (or brown rice for extra fiber)
• 1 cup dried black beans (or canned black beans, rinsed and drained)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
• 1 medium carrot, peeled and chopped
• 1 cup frozen corn kernels
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cups vegetable broth (or water)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
• 1 lime, cut into wedges (optional, for serving)

Equipment

• Medium bowl (for soaking beans, if using dried)
• Large pot or deep skillet with lid
• Cutting board and knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Colander (if rinsing canned beans)

Instructions

1. Prepare the beans: If using dried beans, rinse and soak them overnight in plenty of water. Drain and rinse again before cooking. If using canned beans, skip this step.
2. Cook the beans: In a medium pot, cover soaked beans with fresh water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for about 45-60 minutes, or until tender. Drain and set aside. (If using canned beans, simply rinse and drain.)
3. Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in your large pot or skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Add the vegetables: Toss in the diced bell pepper, chopped carrot, and frozen corn. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables start to soften.
5. Incorporate spices and rice: Stir in the ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the rice and stir well to coat the grains with the spices and oil.
6. Add liquids and tomatoes: Pour in the vegetable broth and the can of diced tomatoes with their juices. Stir everything together and bring to a boil.
7. Simmer: Reduce heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed. Avoid lifting the lid too often to keep the steam inside.
8. Combine with beans: Once the rice is fully cooked, gently fold in the cooked or canned beans. Heat through for 2-3 minutes to blend the flavors.
9. Garnish and serve: Remove from heat, sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro on top, and serve with lime wedges on the side for a zesty touch.

Tips & Variations

For an extra protein boost, add cooked lentils or chickpeas alongside the beans.

Feel free to swap vegetables based on what’s in season or in your fridge—zucchini, spinach, or kale work wonderfully.

If you like a little kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce.

Using brown rice will add a nuttier flavor and more fiber but will require a longer cooking time.

Try adding a teaspoon of [homemade chilli powder](https://gluttonlv.com/recipes/vegan/chilli-powder-recipe-vegan/) for a smoky, spicy depth.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This dish is wonderfully versatile and can be served in many ways:

• Enjoy it as a standalone meal with a squeeze of fresh lime and some chopped cilantro.
• Serve alongside a simple green salad or steamed greens for extra freshness.
• Top with sliced avocado or a dollop of vegan sour cream for creaminess.
• Wrap the mixture in warm tortillas with salsa and guacamole for a budget-friendly burrito.
• Pair with our Cheap Vegetarian Recipes For Families Everyone Will Love for more affordable meal ideas.

Conclusion

This best cheap rice beans veggies recipe is a shining example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a wholesome, flavorful, and satisfying meal. It’s perfect for anyone looking to eat well without spending a fortune or spending hours in the kitchen.

The combination of rice and beans provides a complete protein, while the vegetables add color, texture, and essential nutrients. Plus, it’s adaptable to whatever you have on hand, making it a reliable go-to recipe for busy weeknights or meal prepping.

Whether you’re new to cooking or an experienced home chef, this recipe offers a delicious foundation to build upon. For more creative and budget-friendly ideas, be sure to explore other fantastic recipes like Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals and Asian Vegetarian Rice Bowl Recipes for Easy Healthy Meals.

Happy cooking and enjoy your nutritious, wallet-friendly feast!

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