Best Vegetarian Beans and Rice Recipe for Easy Meals

Beans and rice is the ultimate comfort food combo — hearty, nutritious, and incredibly versatile. Whether you’re a longtime vegetarian or just looking to add more plant-based meals into your weekly rotation, this best vegetarian beans and rice recipe will quickly become a favorite.

It’s packed with protein, fiber, and vibrant flavors that make every bite satisfying and wholesome. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and easy to make, perfect for weeknight dinners or batch cooking for the week ahead.

This recipe combines tender beans, fluffy rice, and a mix of aromatic spices and fresh vegetables. It’s a simple dish that proves vegetarian cooking can be anything but boring.

You can customize it with your favorite beans or add extra veggies to suit your taste. Ready to whip up a bowl of cozy goodness?

Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are countless reasons to love this beans and rice recipe, but here are a few highlights:

• Easy and Quick: With pantry staples like rice and canned beans, this recipe comes together in under 40 minutes.
• Nutritious and Filling: Beans provide plant-based protein and fiber, while rice offers a comforting carb base.
• Budget-Friendly: Affordable ingredients that make multiple servings without breaking the bank.
• Customizable: Add your favorite spices, veggies, or toppings to make it your own.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Keeps well in the fridge and reheats beautifully for lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Ingredients

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

Equipment

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

Instructions

1. Prepare the rice: Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and 2 cups of vegetable broth. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
2. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, and let it simmer for about 18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes.
3. Sauté the vegetables: While the rice cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, and sauté for 5-6 minutes until softened.
4. Add the minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and chili powder to the skillet. Stir for about 1 minute until fragrant.
5. Add beans and corn: Stir in the rinsed black beans and frozen corn (if using). Cook for another 3-4 minutes until heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine rice and beans: Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and add it to the skillet with the bean mixture. Gently stir to combine everything evenly. Cook together for 2 minutes so the flavors meld.
7. Finish with lime and cilantro: Remove from heat and stir in fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro if desired.
8. Serve warm: Dish up your delicious vegetarian beans and rice, garnished with extra cilantro or a dollop of sour cream or avocado slices if you like.

Tips & Variations

“For an even heartier meal, try adding sautéed mushrooms or diced zucchini to the bean mixture. You can also swap black beans for pinto, kidney, or chickpeas for a different flavor profile.”

• Use brown rice: If you prefer, brown rice can be used but will require a longer cooking time and more liquid.
• Make it spicy: Add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat.
• Try different beans: Pinto beans or red kidney beans work wonderfully in this recipe.
• Batch cook: Double the recipe and freeze portions for quick future meals.
• Top it off: Garnish with diced avocado, shredded cheese, or a spoonful of salsa.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegetarian beans and rice dish can be enjoyed in many ways. Serve it as a main course with a side of steamed greens or a fresh salad.

It also works great as a filling for burritos or tacos, topped with your favorite salsa and guacamole.

For a Mexican-inspired twist, pair it with some warm tortillas and a dollop of sour cream or shredded cheese. You might also want to check out our Chipotle Black Beans And Rice Recipe for a smoky variation.

If you’re in the mood for something sweet after this savory meal, don’t miss our delicious Cinnamon Pecan Ice Cream Recipe or the decadent Chocolate Heaven Cake Recipe.

Conclusion

Beans and rice is more than just a classic combination; it’s a nutritious, flavorful, and easy-to-make meal that fits perfectly into a vegetarian lifestyle. This recipe showcases how simple ingredients can come together to create a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or friends, it’s sure to please everyone at the table.

With minimal prep time and flexible ingredients, you can make this recipe your own by adding your favorite spices or veggies. Don’t forget to bookmark this recipe and experiment with different bean varieties or serving styles.

For even more inspiration, explore other dishes like our Classico Sun Dried Tomato Alfredo Sauce Recipe to complement your meals. Happy cooking!

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