π Introduction
When you want a meal thatβs vibrant, nourishing, and endlessly versatile, Very Veggie Rice and Beans checks every box. This plant-forward dish brings together fluffy rice, protein-rich black beans, and a rainbow of vegetables, all finished with fresh herbs, warm spices, and a bright squeeze of lime. Itβs satisfying without being heavy and comforting without feeling bland.
Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or a healthy lunch bowl, this recipe is quick to assemble and easy to customize. With simple ingredients and bold, balanced flavors, itβs a reliable go-to for vegetarian meals that everyone enjoys.
Written to your exact standardsβclear steps, italicized keywords, bullet points, no alcohol, no pork, no links, and a Pinterest-ready finishβthis dish is ready for your recipe collection.
π§° Equipment Needed
- Large skillet or sautΓ© pan
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Can opener
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
π Ingredients
Grains & Beans
- 1 (8-ounce) package precooked white rice
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
Vegetables
- 2 cups corn
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup peas
- 1 large red bell pepper, diced
- 1 large Vidalia onion, diced
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
Seasoning & Finish
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Pinch of cayenne pepper
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
These ingredients create a hearty, colorful veggie rice and beans dish with bright, savory flavor.
π©βπ³ Directions
Step 1: SautΓ© the Aromatics
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the diced Vidalia onion and cook for 4β5 minutes until soft and translucent.
Step 2: Add the Vegetables
- Stir in carrots and red bell pepper.
- Cook for 3β4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly tender.
- Add corn and peas and cook for another 2 minutes.
Step 3: Season the Veggies
- Sprinkle in cumin, kosher salt, black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Stir well to coat the vegetables evenly and toast the spices briefly.
Step 4: Add Beans and Rice
- Add the drained black beans to the skillet and stir to combine.
- Break up the precooked rice and add it to the pan.
- Stir gently until everything is evenly mixed and heated through.
Step 5: Brighten and Finish
- Drizzle in the lime juice and toss to combine.
- Add green onions and fresh cilantro.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 6: Serve Warm
- Remove from heat and serve immediately as a main dish or side.
π½οΈ Servings & Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: About 30 minutes
A perfect quick vegetarian dinner or healthy meal-prep option.
π§ Storage & Reheating
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water if needed.
- This dish holds its texture well and is great for next-day meals.
π₯ Variations
- Protein Boost: Add chickpeas or white beans.
- Spicy Veggie Rice: Increase cayenne or add diced chili peppers.
- Mexican-Inspired: Add extra cumin and chopped tomatoes.
- Grain Swap: Use brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice.
- Fresh Crunch: Add diced cucumber just before serving.
These options keep very veggie rice and beans flexible and exciting.
β 10 FAQs
- Is this dish filling enough as a main meal?
Yes, beans and rice provide protein and fiber. - Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, frozen corn and peas work well. - Is this recipe vegan?
Yes, itβs completely plant-based. - Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutelyβitβs perfect for meal prep. - Is it spicy?
Only mildly; adjust cayenne to taste. - Can kids eat this?
Yes, reduce or omit cayenne for mild flavor. - Does it freeze well?
It can be frozen, though fresh is best for texture. - Can I use fresh rice instead of precooked?
Yes, just cook it beforehand. - What pairs well with this dish?
Salads, roasted vegetables, or flatbread. - Can I double the recipe?
Yes, it scales easily for larger batches.
π Conclusion
Very Veggie Rice and Beans is a bright, wholesome dish that proves simple ingredients can create big flavor. Packed with colorful vegetables, protein-rich beans, and fluffy rice, itβs a comforting, flexible recipe youβll come back to again and again. Whether you serve it as a main, a side, or a meal-prep staple, this dish delivers nourishment and satisfaction in every bite.

Very Veggie Rice and Beans β Colorful, Wholesome, and Weeknight-Easy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the diced Vidalia onion and cook for 4β5 minutes until soft and translucent.
- Stir in carrots and red bell pepper.
- Cook for 3β4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly tender.
- Add corn and peas and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Sprinkle in cumin, kosher salt, black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Stir well to coat the vegetables evenly and toast the spices briefly.
- Add the drained black beans to the skillet and stir to combine.
- Break up the precooked rice and add it to the pan.
- Stir gently until everything is evenly mixed and heated through.
- Drizzle in the lime juice and toss to combine.
- Add green onions and fresh cilantro.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Remove from heat and serve immediately as a main dish or side.
Notes
Yes, beans and rice provide protein and fiber. Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, frozen corn and peas work well. Is this recipe vegan?
Yes, itβs completely plant-based. Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutelyβitβs perfect for meal prep. Is it spicy?
Only mildly; adjust cayenne to taste. Can kids eat this?
Yes, reduce or omit cayenne for mild flavor. Does it freeze well?
It can be frozen, though fresh is best for texture. Can I use fresh rice instead of precooked?
Yes, just cook it beforehand. What pairs well with this dish?
Salads, roasted vegetables, or flatbread. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, it scales easily for larger batches. π Conclusion
Very Veggie Rice and Beans is a bright, wholesome dish that proves simple ingredients can create big flavor. Packed with colorful vegetables, protein-rich beans, and fluffy rice, itβs a comforting, flexible recipe youβll come back to again and again. Whether you serve it as a main, a side, or a meal-prep staple, this dish delivers nourishment and satisfaction in every bite.





