Classic Black Beans and Rice

Satisfy your craving for bold, comforting flavors with this Classic Black Beans and Rice recipe—a wholesome dish that's as versatile as it is satisfying. This easy-to-make recipe combines fluffy long-grain white rice with tender black beans, infused with aromatic spices like cumin, paprika, and oregano for a flavor-packed experience. Bright bell peppers, sautéed garlic, and onions add depth, while a splash of vegetable broth ties everything together. Perfectly seasoned and optionally garnished with fresh cilantro and zesty lime wedges, this dish is ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prep. Whether served as a hearty side or a standalone vegetarian main, this recipe is a budget-friendly, protein-packed comfort food that’s ready in just 40 minutes.

Nutriscore Rating: 75/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:40 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups water
• 2 cups black beans, cooked or canned (drained and rinsed)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 yellow onion, finely diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 0.5 cup vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)
• 4 lime wedges (optional, for serving)

Directions

Step 1

In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and cover with a lid. Cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 2

While the rice cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat.

Step 3

Add the diced onion to the skillet and sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until soft and translucent.

Step 4

Add the minced garlic and diced bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the garlic is fragrant and the bell pepper is slightly softened.

Step 5

Stir in the cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper, mixing well to coat the vegetables with the spices.

Step 6

Add the black beans and vegetable broth to the skillet. Stir to combine, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 7

Taste the black bean mixture and adjust seasonings as needed. Remove from heat.

Step 8

Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and serve in bowls or on plates. Spoon the seasoned black beans over the rice.

Step 9

Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges, if desired. Enjoy your Classic Black Beans and Rice!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1561.1g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1091.5

Total Fat 32.8g	0%
Saturated Fat 5.3g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 3.0g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 3556.0mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 163.8g	0%
Dietary Fiber 36.5g	0%
Total Sugars 12.1g
Protein 39.4g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 335.6mg	0%
Iron 14.5mg	0%
Potassium 1947.1mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 26.6%

Protein: 14.2%

Carbs: 59.1%