Description

A bold and hearty one-pan vegetarian meal packed with spicy black beans, melty cheese, and vibrant veggies. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or a satisfying main course.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 jalapeño, deseeded and diced

1 red bell pepper, chopped

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/4 teaspoon chili powder

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

2 (15 oz) cans black beans, drained and rinsed

1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)

1/2 cup chunky salsa

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or dairy-free alternative)

1/4 cup chopped cilantro

Juice of 1/2 lime

Optional toppings: avocado slices, sour cream, tortilla chips

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Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add chopped onion, garlic, and jalapeño; sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened.
Stir in red bell pepper and cook for another 3–4 minutes.
Mix in cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, and cayenne; stir to coat the vegetables.
Add black beans, corn, and salsa; cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Reduce heat and sprinkle cheese evenly on top.
Cover the skillet and let sit for 2–3 minutes until the cheese melts.
Finish with lime juice and chopped cilantro.
Serve hot with optional toppings like avocado, sour cream, or tortilla chips.

Notes

To make it vegan, use a dairy-free cheese or skip the cheese entirely and top with avocado or vegan sour cream.

Great served over rice or quinoa for a more filling meal.

You can add extra veggies like zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms.

For more heat, add more cayenne or a chipotle pepper in adobo.

Pinto or kidney beans are good substitutes for black beans.

Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days; reheat in microwave or on stovetop with a splash of water or broth.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Skillet
Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 310
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 520mg
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 10g
Protein: 14g
Cholesterol: 20mg