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Easy Flavor-Packed Rice and Bean Burrito Bowls

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A quick, healthy, and flavorful rice and bean burrito bowl recipe perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. Combines smoky seasoned beans, cilantro-lime rice, and fresh toppings for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup long-grain brown rice (or white rice, if preferred)
  • 2 cups water or low-sodium vegetable broth
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 ripe avocado, sliced or mashed
  • 1/2 cup pico de gallo or fresh salsa
  • 1/4 cup pickled red onions (optional)
  • Shredded lettuce or baby spinach
  • Shredded cheddar or cotija cheese (optional)
  • Greek yogurt or sour cream for drizzling (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse 1 cup of long-grain brown rice under cold water until water runs clear. Combine rice with 2 cups water or vegetable broth in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 40-45 minutes until tender. Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
  2. Fluff the rice with a fork and stir in the juice of 1 lime and 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro. Set aside and keep warm.
  3. While rice cooks, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add drained black beans and warm for 2-3 minutes.
  4. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/4 teaspoon chili powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir well and cook for another 3-4 minutes to bloom spices and warm beans through.
  5. Prepare toppings: slice or mash avocado, chop cilantro if not done, and prepare salsa and pickled onions.
  6. Assemble bowls by placing a scoop of cilantro-lime rice in each bowl. Top with seasoned black beans, avocado, salsa, pickled onions, shredded lettuce or spinach, and cheese if using.
  7. Drizzle with Greek yogurt or sour cream if desired, finish with an extra squeeze of lime, and serve immediately.

Notes

Do not rush cooking the rice; brown rice needs full simmer time to become tender. Use moderate heat when warming beans to avoid drying out. Adding spices early and toasting them in oil enhances flavor. If rice is dry, add a splash of water or broth when fluffing. Pre-cooked rice can be used to save time. Customize toppings and spice levels to taste.

Nutrition

Keywords: rice and bean bowl, burrito bowl, healthy meal, quick dinner, vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, easy recipe

Find it online: https://sizzlesprout.com/easy-flavor-packed-rice-and-bean-burrito-bowls-recipe-for-quick-healthy-meals/