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Cilantro-Lime Black Bean Rice served in a bowl with fresh herbs and lime.

Cilantro-Lime Black Bean Rice

A vibrant and quick dish packed with flavor, perfect for busy nights. Featuring hearty black beans and a tangy cilantro-lime kick, it can be served as a main dish or a side.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine: Mexican, Vegan
Calories: 220
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 cup white or brown rice
  • 2 cups vegetable broth or water
  • 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained (15 oz)
  • 1 whole lime, juiced and zested
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • to taste Salt and pepper
Optional Additions
  • 1/2 cup diced red onion for extra crunch
  • 1/2 cup diced bell pepper for extra crunch

Method
 

Cooking the Rice
  1. In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth (or water) to a boil. Stir in the rice and a bit of salt.
  2. Lower the heat, cover, and let it simmer until the rice is tender and fluffy—about 15-20 minutes for white rice (25-30 mins for brown).
Mixing Ingredients
  1. Once the rice is ready, fluff it up with a fork and add the rinsed black beans, lime juice, lime zest, cumin, and chopped cilantro.
  2. Stir everything together gently; you want to mix it well without turning your rice into mush!
Final Seasoning and Serving
  1. Taste it and add salt and pepper as needed.
  2. Feeling fancy? Toss in some diced red onion and bell pepper to add a delightful crunch.
  3. Scoop it onto plates, and garnish with a few lime wedges or more cilantro. Voilà!

Notes

Make it a Meal: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed veggies to turn this side dish into a complete meal. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge; it reheats beautifully.