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Fresh Nye Food Ideas Dinner Bowl with Black Bean & Corn Mix

fresh nye food ideas dinner bowl - featured image

A quick, easy, and healthy dinner bowl featuring smoky black beans, sweet corn, fresh greens, and a zesty lime finish. Perfect for busy weeknights and customizable to suit various dietary needs.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup cooked brown rice or quinoa (about 185g cooked)
  • 2 cups fresh mixed greens or baby spinach (about 60g)
  • 1 can (15 oz/425g) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup fresh or frozen corn kernels (about 150g)
  • 1 small red bell pepper, finely diced
  • 1/2 small red onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled feta or cotija cheese (about 30g)

Instructions

  1. Rinse 1/2 cup (uncooked) brown rice or quinoa under cold water. Add to 1 1/4 cups (300 ml) water in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 40-45 minutes (brown rice) or 15 minutes (quinoa) until water is absorbed and grains are tender. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add diced red onion and red bell pepper, cooking for 3-4 minutes until softened but still vibrant.
  4. Stir in black beans and corn kernels. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon ground cumin and 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika. Season with salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes until warmed through and flavors meld. If dry, splash in a tablespoon of water or broth.
  5. Add juice of 1 lime and chopped cilantro. Stir well and remove from heat. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  6. In serving bowls, start with a bed of fresh greens or spinach. Spoon cooked rice or quinoa over the greens, then top generously with the warm black bean and corn mix.
  7. Sprinkle crumbled feta or cotija cheese if using. Garnish with extra cilantro and a wedge of lime on the side.
  8. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture. Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Notes

Rinse canned beans to remove excess sodium and tinny taste. Do not overcook bell peppers to maintain crunch. Let the bean and corn mixture sit off heat with lid on for a creamier texture. Use pre-cooked grains to save time. Adjust spices to taste. Variations include adding protein like grilled chicken or tofu, swapping corn for seasonal veggies, or using cauliflower rice for grain-free option.

Nutrition

Keywords: black bean, corn, dinner bowl, healthy recipe, quick dinner, vegetarian, gluten-free, easy recipe