Cilantro Lime Rice with Black Beans Recipe
A refreshing and flavorful cilantro lime rice with black beans recipe that’s perfect as a side dish or a base for burrito bowls. This easy-to-make dish combines fluffy rice with zesty lime juice, fresh cilantro, and nutritious black beans for a delicious and satisfying meal.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 23 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Scale
Rice
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Beans and Flavorings
- 1 cup cooked black beans (or 1 can, drained and rinsed)
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Rice: Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice, water, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes until the rice is tender and water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
- Prepare the Beans: If using canned black beans, drain and rinse them thoroughly under cold water to reduce sodium and remove canning liquids.
- Combine Ingredients: Fluff the cooked rice with a fork. Add the black beans, lime juice, chopped cilantro, and olive oil if using. Gently fold everything together until well mixed and heated through.
- Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or lime juice as desired. Serve warm as a side dish or base for your favorite Mexican-inspired meals.
Notes
- For extra flavor, you can sauté some minced garlic and onions before cooking the rice.
- This recipe can be made with brown rice; adjust cooking time accordingly (about 40-45 minutes).
- To make it vegan and gluten-free, ensure the black beans are prepared without animal products or gluten-containing additives.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and freeze well for up to 1 month.
Keywords: cilantro lime rice, black beans, Mexican side dish, easy rice recipe, lime rice with beans
