Smoky Cumin Refried Beans with Avocado

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Creamy refried beans with a hint of smoky cumin, topped with fresh avocado for a satisfying vegetarian side. This mexican (vegetarian) ready in about 10 minutes pairs (15 oz), drained and rinsed pinto beans, cumin, minced garlic for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 280 calories and feeds 2, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with a quick salad or grain on the side. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 5 min Cook: 5 min Serves 2 Mexican cuisine 280 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a food processor, combine 1 can drained pinto beans, 1/2 tsp cumin, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1/4 cup water, and 1/4 tsp salt. Process until smooth, scraping down sides as needed.
  2. Step 2: Heat a small skillet over medium heat. Add the refried beans mixture and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through and slightly thickened.
  3. Step 3: Divide beans between plates, top with 1/2 diced avocado and 1/4 lime juice, and serve immediately.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Smoky Cumin Refried Beans with Avocado take to make?

Total time is about 10 minutes (5 min prep + 5 min cook). Most home cooks find this fits comfortably into a weeknight; double the batch on Sunday for two dinners.

How do I store leftover Smoky Cumin Refried Beans with Avocado?

Cool to room temperature within 2 hours, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat covered in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes, or microwave at 70% power in 60-second bursts to keep cumin from drying out.

Can I substitute ingredients in Smoky Cumin Refried Beans with Avocado?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Smoky Cumin Refried Beans with Avocado for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 2 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 2). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

Is Smoky Cumin Refried Beans with Avocado vegetarian?

Yes — this recipe is tagged vegetarian based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.

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