Southwestern Black Beans and Barley

Packed with bold flavors and wholesome ingredients, Southwestern Black Beans and Barley is a satisfying, one-pan dish perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. This nutrient-rich recipe combines tender pearl barley simmered in vegetable broth with vibrant sautéed bell peppers, creamy black beans, sweet corn, and a warm blend of spices like cumin, chili powder, and paprika. Finished with a garnish of fresh cilantro and a squeeze of zesty lime, this hearty vegan dish is as nourishing as it is flavorful. With a prep time of just 15 minutes and simple, pantry-friendly ingredients, this high-fiber, protein-packed meal is an excellent choice for those seeking a healthy, plant-based dinner option. Serve it as a main course or a versatile side to your favorite southwestern-inspired spread.

Nutriscore Rating: 86/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:45 mins

Total Time:60 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup Pearl barley
• 3 cups Vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons Olive oil
• 1 medium Yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves Garlic cloves, minced
• 1 medium Red bell pepper, diced
• 1 medium Green bell pepper, diced
• 2 cups Canned black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup Corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 1 teaspoon Ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon Chili powder
• 0.5 teaspoon Paprika
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper
• 0.25 cup Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
• 1 whole Lime, cut into wedges

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the pearl barley under cold water. In a medium saucepan, combine the barley and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the barley is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. Set aside.

Step 2

While the barley cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat.

Step 3

Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 4

Stir in the diced red and green bell peppers and cook for 5-7 minutes until they begin to soften.

Step 5

Add the black beans, corn kernels, ground cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine and cook for 3-4 minutes until heated through.

Step 6

Once the barley is done, add it to the skillet with the vegetable and spice mixture. Stir well to ensure the barley is evenly coated with the spices.

Step 7

Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt or spices if needed.

Step 8

Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro, if using.

Step 9

Serve warm with lime wedges on the side for a bright, zesty finish.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(2103.8g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1988.8

Total Fat 42.9g	0%
Saturated Fat 7.1g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 4.8g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 5039.4mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 350.9g	0%
Dietary Fiber 84.7g	0%
Total Sugars 39.9g
Protein 72.9g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 468.2mg	0%
Iron 22.5mg	0%
Potassium 4405.2mg	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: 18.6%

Protein: 14.0%

Carbs: 67.4%