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Fresh Cilantro Lime Rice Bowl with Black Beans

cilantro lime rice bowl - featured image

A quick, easy, and flavorful rice bowl featuring fluffy cilantro lime rice paired with warm, seasoned black beans. Perfect for healthy lunches, dinners, or meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice (200g), rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz/425g) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (loosely packed)
  • 1 large lime, zested and juiced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste
  • 1 3/4 cups water or low-sodium vegetable broth (420ml)
  • Optional toppings: diced avocado, chopped green onions, shredded cheese, sour cream

Instructions

  1. Rinse the rice under cold water in a fine mesh strainer until the water runs clear (about 2-3 minutes).
  2. In a medium saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add the rinsed rice and toast, stirring frequently, for 3-4 minutes until some grains turn slightly golden and smell nutty.
  3. Add 1 3/4 cups water or vegetable broth and 1/2 teaspoon salt to the saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 15 minutes without lifting the lid.
  4. Remove from heat and let the rice rest, covered, for 10 minutes. Fluff gently with a fork.
  5. While the rice cooks, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
  6. Stir in ground cumin, then add the drained and rinsed black beans. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes until heated through and slightly thickened. Season with salt to taste.
  7. In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice with chopped cilantro, lime zest, and lime juice. Stir gently to mix and adjust salt or lime juice if needed.
  8. Assemble the bowl by spooning cilantro lime rice into bowls, topping with warm black beans, and adding optional toppings as desired.

Notes

Rinse rice thoroughly for fluffiness and avoid stirring rice while cooking to prevent mushiness. Toasting the rice adds a nutty flavor. Use fresh lime zest for best flavor. Keep beans warm on gentle heat to avoid drying out. Adjust salt at the end to taste. Optional toppings can add creaminess and texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: cilantro lime rice, black beans, healthy rice bowl, easy dinner, vegan, gluten-free, quick meal