When it comes to hearty, nutritious meals, rice and beans are a classic combo that can’t be beat. Packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, these two pantry staples are perfect for anyone looking to eat well without breaking the bank.

Whether you’re a busy professional, a student on a budget, or simply someone who loves a wholesome meal, these easy rice and beans recipes will satisfy your taste buds and keep you feeling full. Each recipe is designed to be simple, nutritious, and delicious, making them ideal for any day of the week. So roll up your sleeves and get ready to create some yummy dishes that highlight the incredible versatility of rice and beans!

Mitchell Grace

Rice and Beans Recipes

A hearty, budget-friendly classic combining rice and beans—not only delicious but also packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. Perfect for meal prep, student meals, or nourishing weeknight dinners

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Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 6

Course: Main Course, Side Dish

Cuisine: American, Latin-American

Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients

  

• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 1 onion chopped
• 2 garlic cloves minced
• ¾ cup uncooked white rice
• 1½ cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 3½ cups canned beans e.g., black beans, drained
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• Optional: Salt pepper, cilantro, lime (to taste)

Equipment

• Large saucepan or one-pot pan with lid
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups & spoons
• Bowl (for rinsing beans or rice)

Method

 

1. In a saucepan, warm oil over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until fragrant (about 1–2 minutes).
2. Add rice, broth, beans, and cumin. Stir to combine.
3. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Simmer for ~25 minutes, or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
4. Remove from heat, fluff with a fork, and season with salt, pepper, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime if using. Serve warm.

1. Classic One-Pot Rice and Beans

Nothing beats the simplicity of a classic one-pot rice and beans dish. This recipe is not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying. Picture fluffy rice and tender beans simmered together with spices, filling your kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma.

For this dish, you’ll need:

– 1 cup of brown or white rice

– 1 can of black beans, rinsed and drained

– 1 onion, chopped

– 2 cloves of garlic, minced

– 1 teaspoon cumin

– 2 cups of vegetable broth cubes

– Salt and pepper to taste

Start by sautéing the onion and garlic in a pot, preferably using a non-stick cooking pot for ease of cleanup. Once the onion and garlic are golden, add the rice, beans, cumin, and the vegetable broth made from the cubes. Bring it to a boil, cover, and let it simmer until the rice is cooked through. This dish is not only a staple in many cultures but also a fantastic source of plant-based protein!

2. Spicy Mexican Rice and Beans

Spice things up with this Mexican-inspired rice and beans recipe! It’s packed with flavor and perfect for those who like a little heat in their meals. Using fresh jalapeños, tomatoes, and cilantro gives this dish a refreshing kick.

To make preparation easier, consider using a jalapeño slicer. This handy tool allows you to chop your jalapeños with ease, making your cooking process more efficient.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup long-grain rice

– 1 can of pinto beans, drained

– 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies

– 1 jalapeño, chopped

– 1 onion, chopped

– 2 cups vegetable broth

– Fresh cilantro for garnish

Begin by sautéing the onion and jalapeño in a cast iron skillet. Its excellent heat retention will help you achieve perfectly cooked vegetables. Then add the rice, beans, tomatoes, and broth. Allow it to simmer until the rice is cooked and the flavors meld together.

To keep your cilantro fresh for longer, a cilantro herb keeper can be a great addition to your kitchen. This container helps maintain the freshness of herbs, ensuring that your garnish is as vibrant as the rest of the dish.

Garnish with fresh cilantro to brighten up the dish. This is a true crowd-pleaser for those who enjoy bold flavors!

3. Coconut Rice and Beans

Take your taste buds on a tropical vacation with coconut rice and beans! The creamy coconut milk from 365 by Whole Foods Market, Organic Coconut Milk pairs perfectly with the beans, creating a decadent dish that’s simple to make and oh-so-satisfying.

You’ll need:

– 1 cup Mahatma Jasmine Rice, 5lb Bag

– 1 can of Amazon Grocery, Canned Dark Red Kidney Beans, rinsed

– 1 can coconut milk

– 1 cup vegetable broth

– 1 teaspoon salt

– A dash of pepper

Start by cooking the rice in coconut milk and broth, stirring in the beans halfway through. Using Mahatma Jasmine Rice ensures a fragrant and fluffy base for your dish, while the canned kidney beans add a hearty protein boost. The creamy coconut milk enhances the richness of the dish, creating a luscious, creamy meal that transports you straight to the tropics. This recipe not only satisfies hunger but also provides a unique twist to the traditional rice and beans meal!

4. Curried Rice and Beans

If you love the exotic flavors of curry, this curried rice and beans recipe will be a hit! It’s a wonderful blend of spices that adds depth and character to a simple dish.

For this recipe, gather:

– 1 cup Basmati Rice, which provides a fragrant and fluffy texture that pairs perfectly with the spices.

– 1 can chickpeas, drained

– 1 onion, chopped

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 tablespoon curry powder, essential for introducing that warm, aromatic flavor profile to the dish.

– 2 cups vegetable broth, which enriches the rice and beans, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.

Sauté the onion and garlic, stir in the curry powder, then add the rice, chickpeas, and broth. Cook until the rice is fluffy and the flavors are well combined. Enjoy the rich aroma and savor the delightful spices. This dish is perfect for those cozy nights when you desire comfort food with a twist!

Elevate your meals with just one pot! This curried rice and beans recipe combines simple ingredients for a wholesome dish that delights the senses and nourishes the soul.

5. Mediterranean Rice and Beans

Bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your table with this delightful rice and beans dish! Packed with olives, tomatoes, and feta cheese, it’s a refreshing and filling meal.

You’ll need:

– 1 cup brown rice

– 1 can of cannellini beans, drained

– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

– 1/2 cup Mediterranean Olive Mix, chopped

– 1/4 cup feta cheese crumbles, crumbled

– 2 cups vegetable broth

Cook the rice as per package instructions, then mix in the beans, tomatoes, olives, and feta. The Mediterranean Olive Mix adds a wonderful briny flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully. The feta cheese crumbles introduce a creamy and tangy element that elevates the dish, making it even more satisfying. Finally, using vegetable broth instead of water enhances the overall taste with rich flavors that truly embody the Mediterranean spirit.

This recipe is not only budget-friendly but also a great way to enjoy a wholesome meal that’s bursting with flavors!

Elevate your meal game with Mediterranean rice and beans! Packed with vibrant flavors, it’s a budget-friendly dish that fills your belly and warms your heart.

6. Quick and Easy One-Pot Chili Rice and Beans

This quick and easy one-pot chili rice and beans dish is perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with flavor and nutrients, it’s a meal that can be on the table in no time!

To make this dish, you’ll need a few ingredients: 1 cup rice, 1 can black beans (drained), 1 can diced tomatoes, 1 tablespoon chili powder, 1 chopped onion, and 2 cups vegetable broth.

Start by sautéing the onion, then add the rice, beans, tomatoes, chili powder, and broth. Bring it to a boil, cover, and let it simmer. The result is a simple but delicious chili that’s sure to please everyone at the table!

For an even easier cooking experience, consider using the Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 electric pressure cooker. This versatile appliance allows you to sauté your ingredients and then switch to pressure cooking for a quick and delicious meal. It’s perfect for those nights when you’re short on time.

If you prefer a more traditional method, a cast iron skillet can be a great addition to your kitchen. This durable, pre-seasoned frying pan is ideal for sautéing the onion and can be used on the stove, in the oven, or even on the grill, making it a versatile choice for any recipe.

Don’t forget to have a reliable set of measuring tools like the measuring cups and spoons set handy. Accurate measurements are key to ensuring your chili turns out just right, and this set will help you keep everything organized in the kitchen.

With these tools and the simple ingredients, you’ll have a nutritious and filling meal ready in no time!

7. Sweet and Savory Rice and Beans

For a unique twist, try this sweet and savory rice and beans recipe featuring mango! This combination is not only delicious but also visually stunning.

Ingredients you’ll need:

– 1 cup Mahatma jasmine rice

– 1 can canned black beans, drained

– 1 ripe mango, diced

– 1 tablespoon olive oil

– Juice of 1 lime

– Salt and pepper to taste

Cook the rice, then mix in the beans, mango, olive oil, and lime juice. Season with salt and pepper. The sweetness of mango complements the earthiness of the beans perfectly. Using Mahatma jasmine rice adds a fragrant touch to your dish, while canned black beans provide convenience and nutrition. A drizzle of high-quality olive oil enriches the flavors, making this unexpected flavor combo truly delightful for your taste buds!

8. Rustic Rice and Beans Bake

This rustic rice and beans bake is comfort food at its best! Baking the dish adds a crispy texture that brings a whole new level of flavor, making it an ideal choice for a satisfying meal.

To prepare this dish, gather the following ingredients:

– 1 cup cooked rice

– 1 can lentils, drained

– 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded

– 1 cup vegetable broth

– 1/2 teaspoon paprika

– Salt and pepper to taste

Mix the cooked rice, lentils, vegetable broth, paprika, salt, and pepper in a baking dish—using a glass baking dish allows for even heat distribution and is perfect for oven, freezer, and microwave use. Top with cheese and bake until golden. This meal is not only comforting but also packed with protein to keep you energized!

9. Thai-Inspired Rice and Beans

Try this Thai-inspired rice and beans recipe for a fusion dish that’s both exotic and comforting. With the flavors of coconut and lime, it’s a delightful meal.

You’ll need:

– 1 cup Mahatma jasmine rice

– 1 can chickpeas, drained

– 1 can 365 by Whole Foods Market organic coconut milk

– 2 tablespoons lime juice

– Fresh basil for garnish

Cook the jasmine rice in the coconut milk for a rich and creamy base, add the drained chickpeas for protein, and pour in some lime juice for a zesty kick. The coconut milk not only enhances the dish’s flavor but also provides a smooth texture that pairs wonderfully with the rice. The fresh basil adds a fragrant note, elevating the overall culinary experience. This dish offers a refreshing twist and is perfect for those who love trying new culinary adventures!

Elevate your weeknight dinner with a Thai-inspired rice and beans recipe! Coconut milk and lime create a refreshing twist that turns simple ingredients into a delightful culinary adventure.

10. Zesty Lemon Rice and Beans

For a bright, zesty flavor, this lemon rice and beans recipe is a must-try! Perfect for summer meals or whenever you want a light dish.

To make this delightful meal, start with Authentic Royal – Naturally Aged Long Grain Indian White Basmati Rice, which adds a fragrant touch to the dish. Use 1 cup of basmati rice, and pair it with 1 can of canned white beans, drained, for a good source of protein and fiber. The zest and juice of 1 lemon brighten the flavor, while 1 tablespoon of olive oil enriches the dish with healthy fats. Don’t forget to add 1/4 cup of chopped parsley for a fresh finish, along with salt and pepper to taste.

Cook the rice as directed, then stir in the beans, lemon zest, juice, olive oil, and parsley. This refreshing dish is perfect as a side or a light main course. The lemon gives it a lively flavor that is simply irresistible!

Brighten up your plate with zesty lemon rice and beans! This simple recipe not only nourishes but also adds a refreshing twist to your meals. Who knew healthy could taste so good?

Conclusion

Rice and beans are truly versatile, affordable, and nutritious staples that can be transformed into a variety of delicious meals. Whether you prefer spicy, sweet, or savory, there’s a recipe here to satisfy every palate. Don’t hesitate to experiment and make these dishes your own!

We hope these recipes inspire you to incorporate more rice and beans into your meals and enjoy the wholesome goodness they bring.

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