Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Black Bean and Rice Bowl with Cilantro Lime Yogurt Sauce

Black Bean and Rice Bowl with Cilantro Lime Yogurt Sauce

A vibrant and nourishing Black Bean and Rice Bowl with a creamy, tangy cilantro lime yogurt sauce. This wholesome, protein-rich meal combines fluffy long grain rice, seasoned black beans, and a fresh, zesty sauce that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep. Easy to customize and packed with fresh flavors, it’s a colorful, comforting, and healthy dish.

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

For the Black Beans and Rice Bowl

  • 1 cup long grain rice (white or brown)
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt, to taste

For the Cilantro Lime Yogurt Sauce

  • 1 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • 1 small garlic clove, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil

Optional Fresh Veggie Toppings

  • Diced tomatoes
  • Avocado slices
  • Fresh corn kernels
  • Chopped green onions
  • Chopped red onions

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Rice: Cook your chosen rice according to package instructions, preferably using vegetable or chicken broth instead of water for added flavor. Once cooked, fluff with a fork and set aside to keep warm.
  2. Season and Heat the Black Beans: Drain and rinse canned black beans thoroughly. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, then add minced garlic, ground cumin, and smoked paprika. Stir to combine and cook until fragrant. Add the beans, stir well, and cook about five minutes until the beans are heated through and aromatic. Season with salt to taste.
  3. Make the Cilantro Lime Yogurt Sauce: In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt with freshly chopped cilantro, fresh lime juice, minced garlic, salt, and a drizzle of olive oil. Stir until smooth and well blended. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed; the sauce should be bright, tangy, and creamy.
  4. Assemble the Bowl: In serving bowls, place a generous portion of cooked rice as the base. Top with the seasoned black beans. Drizzle the cilantro lime yogurt sauce over the top. Add optional fresh vegetable toppings like diced tomatoes, avocado slices, or corn for extra color and texture.

Notes

  • Rinse beans well to reduce sodium content and improve freshness.
  • Use fresh lime juice for a bright, authentic flavor in the yogurt sauce.
  • Cook rice in broth instead of water to add more depth to the dish.
  • Prepare rice and beans ahead for quick assembly and meal prep convenience.
  • Adjust salt and acidity carefully to balance the flavors without overpowering any ingredients.
  • Author: Lina
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 1.5 cups)
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 350mg
  • Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 55g
  • Fiber: 10g
  • Protein: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 10mg

Keywords: black bean bowl, rice bowl, cilantro lime yogurt sauce, healthy bowl, vegetarian, gluten free, easy dinner, meal prep