Very Veggie Rice and Beans – Colorful, Wholesome, and Weeknight-Easy

Adam

Very Veggie Rice and Beans – Colorful, Wholesome, and Weeknight-Easy

When you want a meal that’s 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. It’s 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, it’s a reliable go-to for vegetarian meals that everyone enjoys. Written to your exact standards—clear steps, italicized keywords, bullet points, no alcohol, no pork, no links, and a Pinterest-ready finish—this dish is ready for your recipe collection.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 15

Total Time 30

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Adem Recipes Daily

Free app • 1800+ recipes • iOS & Android

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.

Adem Recipes Daily

Free app • 1800+ recipes • iOS & Android

Equipment

Large skillet or sauté pan
Cutting board
Sharp knife
Can opener
Wooden spoon or spatula
Measuring cups and spoons

Method

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the diced Vidalia onion and cook for 4–5 minutes until soft and translucent.

Step 2: Add the Vegetables

Stir in carrots and red bell pepper.
Cook for 3–4 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.

Notes

🧊 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.

🥄 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.

❓ 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, it’s completely plant-based.

Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely—it’s 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.

🏁 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, it’s a comforting, flexible recipe you’ll 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.