Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is quick, easy, and packed with flavor. The combination of citrusy lime and protein-rich beans makes it both refreshing and filling. It’s vegan, gluten-free, and budget-friendly—perfect for meal prep, weeknight dinners, or feeding a crowd. You’ll love how versatile it is and how well it pairs with a variety of cuisines from Latin American to Caribbean and beyond.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Cooked white rice (or jasmine, basmati, or brown rice)
- Canned or cooked black beans or pinto beans
- Fresh lime juice
- Lime zest
- Garlic
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Fresh cilantro or parsley
- Optional: diced onion, green onions, cumin, chili flakes
Directions
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and optional diced onion. Sauté until fragrant and soft.
- Stir in the cooked rice and beans.
- Add lime juice, lime zest, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is heated through and well combined.
- Remove from heat and stir in chopped fresh cilantro or parsley.
- Taste and adjust lime or seasoning as needed.
- Serve warm as a side or main dish.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Variations
- Use brown rice or quinoa for added fiber.
- Add corn, diced tomatoes, or bell peppers for extra texture and flavor.
- Spice it up with jalapeños or red chili flakes.
- Stir in avocado chunks or serve with guacamole for creaminess.
- Use coconut milk and lime for a tropical twist.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until heated through. Add a splash of water or lime juice to revive the texture.
This dish also freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use canned beans?
Yes, just rinse and drain them well before adding to the rice.
What kind of rice works best?
Long grain white rice, jasmine, or basmati rice work best for a light, fluffy texture.
Can I use bottled lime juice?
Fresh lime juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled can be used in a pinch.
Is this dish vegan?
Yes, it’s naturally vegan and gluten-free as long as no animal products are added.
How do I make it spicier?
Add chopped jalapeños, serrano peppers, or red pepper flakes to the garlic while sautéing.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, it holds up well and tastes even better after the flavors have had time to meld.
Can I add meat?
Sure! Add cooked shredded chicken, ground beef, or grilled shrimp to make it a complete meal.
How do I prevent the rice from becoming mushy?
Use fully cooled or day-old rice for the best texture, and sauté it until lightly toasted before adding other ingredients.
Can I use other herbs instead of cilantro?
Yes, parsley or green onions are great alternatives if you’re not a fan of cilantro.
What can I serve with lime rice and beans?
It pairs well with tacos, grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or as a filling for burritos or bowls.
Conclusion
Lime rice and beans is a flavorful, refreshing dish that brings together the perfect balance of zest, heartiness, and simplicity. With minimal ingredients and a quick cooking time, it’s an easy way to elevate your everyday meals. Whether served as a side or enjoyed on its own, this dish is a satisfying staple you’ll come back to again and again.
PrintLime Rice and Beans
Lime rice and beans is a zesty, hearty dish made with fluffy rice, protein-rich beans, and fresh lime juice. Perfect as a side or light main, it’s easy, flavorful, and naturally vegan and gluten-free.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Latin American
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked white rice (or jasmine, basmati, or brown rice)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans or pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro or parsley
- Optional: 1/4 cup diced onion
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
- Optional: pinch of chili flakes or chopped jalapeño
Instructions
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and optional diced onion. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
- Stir in cooked rice and beans. Mix well to combine and heat through.
- Add lime juice, lime zest, salt, and pepper. Stir to distribute evenly.
- Remove from heat and mix in chopped cilantro or parsley.
- Taste and adjust seasoning or lime to preference.
- Serve warm as a side dish or light main course.
Notes
- Use day-old rice for the best texture and to avoid mushiness.
- Customize with added vegetables like corn or bell peppers.
- Can be made ahead—flavors improve as it sits.
- Add cooked chicken or shrimp for a protein-packed main.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
