What is your review of Cilantro Lime Black Bean Rice? What are some of the best recipes to keep in your back pocket? What are some good Mexican rice recipes? Well, think of this as its cool, younger cousin – packed with fresh flavor, a little bit of zing, and tastiness. How do I get ready in a flash? I’ve been making tacos for years now and I can’t stop thinking about it. Is it a good tacto? We’re not having tacos! What are some of the best flavors that are just too good to resist? Is it difficult to make a soup with your eyes closed?
What is Cilantro Lime Black Bean Rice?
Cilantro Lime Black Bean Rice is, at its core, a flavorful and vibrant rice dish. I prefer long grain rice, but you can use any other grain). ), jazzed up with the bright, herbaceous flavors of fresh cilantro and the zesty kick of lime. What are the benefits of black beans for a healthy side dish? What is a light meal? Think of it as a blank canvas that you can customize to your liking. I sometimes add a little bit of diced red onion or bell pepper for extra crunch and sweetness. Is it all about making your own flavors?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Seriously, where do I even begin? First of all, the flavor is absolutely incredible. The combination of cilantro and lime is just *chef’s kiss*. It’s so fresh and vibrant, it really brightens up any meal. Secondly, this recipe is ridiculously simple to make. Even if you’re a beginner cook, you can nail this. There’s no complicated techniques or fancy ingredients involved. What I love most about this is how budget-friendly it is. Rice, beans, cilantro, and lime are all relatively inexpensive ingredients, so you can easily feed a crowd without breaking the bank. And speaking of versatility, this rice is amazing served as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish, as a filling for burritos or tacos, or even as a base for a delicious rice bowl. It’s also a great make-ahead dish – it tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had a chance to meld together. I promise, this will become a go-to recipe in your house, just like it has in mine!
How do I make Cilantro Lime Black Bean Rice?
Quick Overview
How do I make Cilantro Lime Black Bean Rice? How do I cook rice according to package directions? While the rice is cooking, you’ll gather your remaining ingredients. Black beans (canned or cooked from scratch), fresh cilantro, lime juice, and any other additions you like. Once the rice is cooked, you’ll simply stir in the remaining ingredients and fluff it all together. What is the beauty of this recipe is that it’s easily customizable. How much cilantro and lime juice should I add? What are some good ways to add a little heat to your salad? Is it so simple that you’ll be making it on repeat?
Ingredients
For the Main Dish: What is the best dish
* 2 cups cooked long-grain rice (I use basmati or jasmine, but any kind will do!)
* 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained (or 1 1/2 cups cooked black beans) – If using canned, make sure to rinse really well to remove extra sodium.
* 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro – Don’t skimp on the cilantro! It’s really the star of the show.
* 2-3 tablespoons fresh lime juice (from about 1-2 limes), or more to taste – Freshly squeezed is key here! Bottled lime juice just doesn’t have the same zing.
* 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional) – Adds a nice richness, but you can skip it if you’re watching your fat intake.
* 1/2 teaspoon salt, or more to taste – Seasoning is key to bringing out the flavors.
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or more to taste – Adds a little bit of warmth.
Optional Add-in
* 1/4 cup diced red onion – Adds crunch and a bit of sharpness. * 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper – Adds a touch of sweetness and color. * 1 jalapeo, seeded and minced (optional) – For a little bit of heat. * 1 clove garlic, minced (optional) – Adds a savory depth of flavor. * Corn – Canned, frozen, or fresh all work!
What are the steps to
Step 1: Cook the Rice
Start by cooking rice according to package directions or your preferred method. I usually use a rice cooker, but you can also cook it on the stovetop. I always add salt to the cooking water to season the rice from the inside out. Make sure to fluff the rice with a fork once it’s cooked to separate the grains and prevent it from sticking. Is clump
Step 2: Prepare the Black Beans
If you’re using canned black beans, rinse them thoroughly under cold water to remove any excess fat. If you are using cooked black beans, make sure they’re cooked until tender but not mushy. I like to cook black beans with a bay leaf and garlic for extra flavor.
Step 3: Chop the Cilantro
Wash and thoroughly dry the cilantro. Then, using a sharp knife, chop it finely. I like to use both the leaves and the stems, as they have a lot of flavor. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, you can use parsley instead, but it won’t have the same distinct flavor.
Step 4: Juice the Limes
How do you squeeze limes on a countertop? Then, cut them in half and juice them using a citrus juicer or by hand. Make sure to remove any seeds. I usually use about 2-3 tablespoons of lime juice, but you can adjust it to your liking. Start with less and add more.
Step 5: Combine Everything
In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, black beans, chopped cilantro, lime juice, olive oil (if using) and salt. Serve immediately. What is the use of salt, pepper, and black What is the best way to mix everything together until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If you like lime juice or salt, you may want to add more.
Step 6: Add Optional Ingredients (If Using)
If you’re using any of the optional add-ins, such as diced red onion, bell pepper, or jalapeo, stir to combine. What are the ingredients for rice mixture? I like to add these ingredients raw for a bit of crunch, but you can also sauté them lightly before serving. Add them to the rice.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the Cilantro Lime Black Bean Rice warm or at room temperature. Is it good as a side dish with grilled chicken, fish, or steak? Is it good as a filling for burritos or tacos? I like to garnish it with a few extra sprigs of cilantro and lime wedge.
What should I serve it with?
Oh, the possibilities! Cilantro Lime Black Bean Rice is so versatile, it goes with just about everything.
For Taco Night: What’sWhat is the best taco to serve with your favorite fried chicken? ) and all the fixings: guacamole, salsa, sour cream, and shredded lettuce. Is it the perfect complement to all those flavors?
What is Grilled Protein?What are some good ways to serve grilled chicken, steak, or fish with this rice? Is lime flavor really cutting through the richness of the meat, creating a balanced and flavorful flavor. What is the best meal
In a Burrito Bowl:How do you make a burrito bowl? With grilled chicken or steak, black beans, corn, salsa, guacamole, and shredded cheese. Is this a healthy meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner?
As a side dish:Serve it alongside your favorite Mexican-inspired dishes, such as enchiladas, quesadillas, or tacos. Is it good for vegetarians? What are some great ideas for a buffet bar?
My family loves it with grilled shrimp – the sweetness of the shrimp pairs perfectly with the sauce. What is the difference between cilantro and lime Last summer, we even tried it with some grilled pineapple and it was AMAZING!
How do I make Cilantro Lime Black Bean Rice?
Alright, friends, let’s get down to the nitty gritty. What is the best Cilantro Lime Black Bean Rice recipe?
Rice Matters:What kind of rice you use can really impact the final result. I like long grain rice like basmati or jasmine because it tends to be fluffier and less sticky. What kind of rice can I use? Just make sure to adjust the cooking time and water amount accordingly.
Fresh is Best:When it comes to cilantro and lime juice, fresh is always best. Why is lime juice not as zingy as freshly squeezed lime? Can you compare and contrast dried cilantro and fresh cilantro?
Don’t overcook rice: Do not overOvercooked rice is mushy and unpleasant. What is the best method to cook rice? Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork to separate the grains and prevent it from clumping.
How do you rinse beans?If you’re using canned black beans, be sure to rinse them thoroughly under cold water to remove any stains. Why is rice mushy?
How do you taste and adjust?What is the beauty of this recipe? Don’t be afraid to taste and adjust the seasoning to your liking. If you like lime juice, add more salt or pepper to taste. I always start with less and add more as needed.
How can I get creative with add-ins?This recipe is a blank canvas, so feel free to get creative with the add-ins. What are some good additions to a salad? Diced red onion, bell pepper, jalapeo, corn, and garlic. What are some great herbs to add to a salad?
One time, I accidentally added too much lime juice, and it was way too tart. A little pinch of sugar actually balanced it out perfectly! It’s all about experimenting and finding what works for you.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Okay, let’s talk storage. This Cilantro Lime Black Bean Rice keeps really well, which makes it perfect for meal prepping or making ahead of time.
Room Temperature: I wouldn’t recommend leaving it out at room temperature for more than a couple of hours, especially if it’s hot outside. Bacteria can grow quickly at room temperature, so it’s best to refrigerate it as soon as possible.
Refrigerator Storage: Store the rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before refrigerating it to prevent condensation from forming, which can make the rice mushy.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the rice. Spread it out on a baking sheet and freeze it for about an hour, then transfer it to a freezer bag or airtight container. This will prevent it from clumping together. It can last in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, you can microwave it, steam it, or reheat it on the stovetop. If microwaving, add a tablespoon or two of water to help prevent it from drying out. If reheating on the stovetop, add a little bit of broth or water and stir frequently until heated through.
And here’s a little trick – if you’re reheating it from frozen, add a splash of lime juice to brighten it up again!
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So there you have it – my go-to recipe for Cilantro Lime Black Bean Rice! It’s easy, flavorful, and incredibly versatile. It’s a dish that I know I can always count on to impress my family and friends. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish, using it as a filling for burritos, or building your own burrito bowl, I guarantee you’re going to love it! If you’re a fan of Mexican-inspired cuisine, you should also try my recipe for homemade salsa and my easy guacamole recipe. Let me know in the comments how yours turns out, and don’t forget to rate the recipe if you enjoyed it! Happy cooking!
Cilantro Lime Black Bean Rice
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 1.5 cups water
- 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 0.5 cup chopped cilantro
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Rinse the rice under cold water.
- Combine rice, water, black beans, cilantro, lime juice, cumin, and salt in a saucepan.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the liquid is absorbed.
- Fluff with a fork and serve warm.
