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Fresh Cilantro Lime Rice with Black Beans

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A quick and easy zesty side dish featuring fluffy long-grain white rice, fresh cilantro, lime juice, and warm black beans seasoned with garlic and cumin. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice (about 190g), rinsed
  • 2 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth (480ml)
  • 1 can (15 oz / 425g) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (loosely packed), stems removed
  • Juice of 2 medium limes (about 3 tablespoons), plus extra lime wedges for serving
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (extra virgin recommended)
  • ½ teaspoon cumin powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste (start with about ½ teaspoon salt)

Instructions

  1. Rinse the rice under cold running water for about 30 seconds using a fine mesh strainer to remove excess starch. Let drain well.
  2. In a medium saucepan, combine rinsed rice and 2 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low and cover tightly. Simmer gently for 18 minutes without lifting the lid.
  3. Turn off heat and let the rice sit, covered, for 5 minutes to steam.
  4. While the rice cooks, heat olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
  5. Add drained and rinsed black beans, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir gently and cook for 3-4 minutes until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
  6. Roughly chop the cilantro leaves, avoiding tough stems.
  7. Fluff the cooked rice gently with a fork to separate grains. Transfer rice to a large mixing bowl.
  8. Add the warmed black beans and garlic mixture, chopped cilantro, and lime juice. Stir gently but thoroughly to combine.
  9. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and extra lime juice if desired.
  10. Transfer to a serving bowl and garnish with extra cilantro sprigs and lime wedges.

Notes

Rinsing the rice is crucial to prevent clumping. Keep the lid closed while cooking rice to retain steam. Warm the beans gently with garlic and cumin to avoid burning the garlic. If the rice seems dry after mixing, add a splash of water or drizzle olive oil. For best freshness, add cilantro and lime juice just before serving or after reheating leftovers.

Nutrition

Keywords: cilantro lime rice, black beans, easy side dish, zesty rice, quick recipe, vegetarian, gluten-free, healthy side

Find it online: https://wigglebite.com/fresh-cilantro-lime-rice-with-black-beans-easy-zesty-recipe-for-flavorful-meals/