- 1 can (15 oz) **black beans**, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup **corn kernels** (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1/2 cup **red bell pepper**, diced
- 1/4 cup **red onion**, finely chopped
- 1 **jalapeño pepper**, seeded and minced (adjust for spice level)
- 1/4 cup **fresh lime juice** (about 2 limes)
- 2 tablespoons **olive oil**
- 1 teaspoon **ground cumin**
- 1/2 teaspoon **chili powder**
- 1/4 teaspoon **cayenne pepper** (optional for extra heat)
- 1/4 cup **fresh cilantro**, chopped
- **Salt** and **pepper** to taste
**Optional Toppings:**
- **Avocado slices**
- **Crumbled feta cheese** (or **cotija cheese**)
- **Lime wedges** for garnish
- **Hot sauce** for extra spice
This **herbed rice and spicy black bean salad** is a **healthy**, **flavorful**, and **protein-packed** dish perfect for **meal prep**, **vegan diets**, or as a **side dish** for summer barbecues. Packed with **fresh herbs**, **spices**, and **nutrient-rich ingredients**, it’s a **gluten-free** and **vegetarian-friendly** recipe that’s easy to customize!
Steps
**How to Make Herbed Rice and Spicy Black Bean Salad: A Flavorful, Healthy Recipe**
Looking for a delicious, nutritious, and easy-to-make dish? This **herbed rice and spicy black bean salad** is packed with flavor, protein, and fresh ingredients. Perfect for meal prep, potlucks, or a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser. Follow these detailed steps to create a vibrant and satisfying dish.
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### **Ingredients**
- **For the Herbed Rice:**
- 1 cup basmati or jasmine rice
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- **For the Spicy Black Bean Salad:**
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
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### **Step-by-Step Instructions**
#### **1. Cook the Herbed Rice**
1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the rice and toast for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently.
3. Pour in water or vegetable broth and add salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
4. Fluff the rice with a fork and let it cool slightly. Stir in the chopped parsley, cilantro, dill, and lemon zest. Set aside.
#### **2. Prepare the Spicy Black Bean Salad**
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the black beans, corn, red bell pepper, red onion, and jalapeño.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
3. Pour the dressing over the bean mixture and toss until evenly coated.
4. Gently fold in the diced avocado to avoid mashing it.
#### **3. Assemble the Dish**
1. In a serving bowl or platter, spread the herbed rice as the base.
2. Top the rice with the spicy black bean salad, ensuring an even distribution of ingredients.
3. Garnish with extra chopped herbs or a squeeze of lime juice for added freshness.
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### **Tips for Success**
- **Meal Prep Friendly:** Store the herbed rice and black bean salad separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Combine just before serving.
- **Customize the Heat:** Adjust the spiciness by adding more or less jalapeño or chili powder.
- **Add Protein:** For a heartier meal, include grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
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This **herbed rice and spicy black bean salad** is a perfect blend of textures and flavors, making it a versatile dish for any occasion. With its fresh herbs, zesty lime, and bold spices, it’s a healthy and satisfying option that’s sure to impress. Try it today and enjoy a burst of flavor in every bite!