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Easy Flavor-Packed Black Bean and Rice Skillet Recipe for Quick Healthy Meals

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A quick and easy black bean and rice skillet loaded with bold, comforting flavors, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute healthy meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice (or brown rice, adjust cooking time accordingly)
  • 2 cups (16 fl oz / 480 ml) vegetable broth (can substitute chicken broth)
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 medium bell pepper, diced (red or green)
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon chili powder (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • A handful fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
  • 1 lime, cut into wedges

Instructions

  1. Drain and rinse 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) of black beans. Chop 1 medium onion, mince 3 garlic cloves, and dice 1 bell pepper. Set aside.
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, and ½ teaspoon chili powder. Stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the spices.
  3. Add the chopped onion and diced bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for 5-6 minutes until softened and translucent, stirring occasionally.
  4. Stir in the minced garlic and 2 tablespoons tomato paste. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to allow the tomato paste to caramelize slightly.
  5. Add 1 cup (200 g) long-grain white rice to the skillet and stir to coat with the spice mixture and veggies. Pour in 2 cups (480 ml) vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
  6. Gently fold in the rinsed black beans. Season with 1 teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Stir to combine and heat through for 3-4 minutes.
  7. Remove from heat, sprinkle with chopped fresh cilantro if desired, and serve with lime wedges for squeezing on top.

Notes

Toast spices carefully over moderate heat to avoid burning. Use broth instead of water for richer flavor. Rinse canned beans to reduce sodium and metallic taste. Cook rice covered and undisturbed for best texture. Adjust seasoning at the end and add a squeeze of lime to brighten flavors. For low-carb option, substitute rice with cauliflower rice and reduce cooking time to 5-7 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: black beans, rice, skillet recipe, quick meals, healthy dinner, vegan, gluten-free, easy recipe, weeknight meal

Find it online: https://lyrafeast.com/easy-flavor-packed-black-bean-and-rice-skillet-recipe-for-quick-healthy-meals/