Description
A vibrant and hearty Taco Rice Bowl loaded with seasoned rice, black beans, charred vegetables, creamy avocado, and fresh lime. This customizable, one-pan meal is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, and is naturally gluten-free and easily adapted to be vegan or vegetarian.
Ingredients
1 cup brown rice (or white rice or quinoa)
2 cups water or vegetable broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 tablespoon taco seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
1/2 teaspoon cumin
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 avocado, sliced
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1/2 cup salsa or pico de gallo
1/4 cup vegan or regular shredded cheese (optional)
Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
- Rinse the rice and combine it with water or vegetable broth in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 40–45 minutes until tender and liquid is absorbed.
- While the rice cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté the onion and garlic for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the chopped bell pepper and corn, and cook for another 5 minutes until softened and slightly charred.
- Stir in the black beans, taco seasoning, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 3–4 minutes until well combined and heated through.
- Fluff the cooked rice and divide it among serving bowls.
- Top each bowl with the veggie and bean mixture, avocado slices, salsa or pico de gallo, shredded cheese (if using), cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
Swap rice with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a lighter option.
Add grilled zucchini, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes for extra veggies.
Top with grilled tofu, tempeh, or a fried egg for more protein.
Store toppings like avocado and cilantro separately for meal prep.
Microwave leftovers with a splash of water or broth to reheat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 390 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 9g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
