Mexican Rice and Beans
Fluffy cilantro-lime rice mixed with seasoned black beans for a protein-packed side that pairs with any Mexican-inspired meal.
This is my go-to side when I'm making burrito bowls or anything Tex-Mex at home. Rice alone doesn't bring much to the table protein-wise, but once you mix in black beans, the numbers start looking real. Ten grams of protein from a side dish, and it takes like twenty-five minutes total.
The cilantro and lime are what make it. Without them it's just rice and beans, fine, but boring. With them, it's the thing everyone asks you to make again. I squeeze the lime juice in right at the end so it stays fresh and bright.
The Protein Upgrade
Plain Mexican rice has about 3-4g protein per serving. By mixing in a full can of seasoned black beans, we bring it up to 10g per serving with added fiber as a bonus.
Mexican Rice and Beans
Ingredients
- 1 cup long grain white rice (rinsed) 1g protein
- 2 cups water
- 1 can (15oz) black beans (drained and rinsed) 5g protein
- 1 tbsp oil
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- ½ tsp cumin powder
- ¼ tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp salt
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro (chopped)
- 2 tbsp lime juice (about 1 lime)
- 1 tbsp butter
Instructions
- Heat oil in a medium pot over medium heat. Add garlic, cumin, and chili powder. Stir for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the rinsed rice and stir to coat in the spices. Toast for 1 minute.
- Add water and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15 minutes.
- While the rice cooks, warm the black beans in a small saucepan with a pinch of cumin and salt.
- When the rice is done, remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
- Stir in the butter until melted, then fold in the warm black beans, cilantro, and lime juice.
- Taste and adjust salt and lime. Serve immediately or store for meal prep.
Boost Your Protein
- Use two cans of black beans and less rice for an even higher protein ratio.
- Swap white rice for brown rice for extra fiber and slightly more protein.
- Top with a dollop of Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for extra protein.
Ingredient Substitutions
- No black beans? Use pinto beans or kidney beans.
- Swap white rice for brown rice for extra fiber.
- No fresh cilantro? Use 1 tsp dried cilantro or fresh parsley.
- No lime juice? Use lemon juice or a splash of white vinegar.