Three-Bean and Rice Bowl with Lime-Cilantro Dressing
Hearty bean and rice bowl with a bright lime-cilantro dressing, packed with protein and ready in 15 minutes for meal prep. This mexican-inspired vegetarian ready in about 10 minutes blends cooked brown rice, ounces rinsed and drained black beans, ounces rinsed and drained kidney beans into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 350 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. 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.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked brown rice
- 15 ounces rinsed and drained black beans
- 15 ounces rinsed and drained kidney beans
- 15 ounces rinsed and drained cannellini beans
- 1/2 cup drained corn kernels
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 juiced lime
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, combine 15 ounces rinsed black beans, 15 ounces rinsed kidney beans, 15 ounces rinsed cannellini beans, 1/2 cup drained corn kernels, and 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion.
- Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 juiced lime, 1/2 teaspoon cumin, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper to make dressing.
- Step 3: Pour dressing over bean mixture and toss to coat evenly. Stir in 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro.
- Step 4: Divide mixture over 1 cup cooked brown rice and serve immediately.
Equipment for this recipe
Top-rated tools to make this recipe successfully.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Three-Bean and Rice Bowl with Lime-Cilantro Dressing take to make?
Total time is about 10 minutes (10 min prep + 0 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.
How do I store leftover Three-Bean and Rice Bowl with Lime-Cilantro Dressing?
Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.
Can I substitute ingredients in Three-Bean and Rice Bowl with Lime-Cilantro Dressing?
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 Three-Bean and Rice Bowl with Lime-Cilantro Dressing for a different number of people?
The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). 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.
What goes well with Three-Bean and Rice Bowl with Lime-Cilantro Dressing?
Mexican vegetarian like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.
What others are saying
- ★★★★★
Simple and delicious.
- ★★★★★
So much better than takeout. We'll never order mexican delivery again.
- ★★★★★
The step-by-step instructions were super clear. Turned out perfect on my first try.
