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Fresh Cilantro Lime Rice with Canned Beans

cilantro lime rice - featured image

A quick, easy, and zesty cilantro lime rice with creamy canned beans, perfect for meal prep or a flavorful side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice (preferably jasmine)
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice (from 1 large lime)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • Salt, to taste
  • Ground black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: 1/2 teaspoon cumin

Instructions

  1. Rinse the rice under cold water until water runs clear, then drain well (optional but recommended).
  2. In a medium saucepan, combine rinsed rice with 1 3/4 cups water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes without lifting the lid.
  3. While rice cooks, heat olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Sauté chopped onion until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and optional cumin, cooking for another minute until fragrant. Remove from heat.
  4. Drain and rinse canned black beans under cold water.
  5. Remove rice from heat and let sit covered for 5 minutes. Then fluff gently with a fork.
  6. In a large bowl, combine fluffed rice, sautéed onion and garlic, rinsed beans, chopped cilantro, and lime juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir gently until well combined.
  7. Taste and adjust lime juice or salt if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

Rinsing the rice helps keep it fluffy but can be skipped if in a hurry. Add lime juice off the heat to preserve fresh flavor. If rice feels dry, stir in a splash of olive oil or water before serving. Toasted pumpkin seeds or chopped nuts can be added for extra texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: cilantro lime rice, canned beans, quick meal prep, easy side dish, vegan, gluten-free, zesty rice