Black Bean Veggie Bowl

Brighten up your meal routine with this vibrant Black Bean and Veggie Bowl. This dish is a powerhouse of fresh flavors, combining the heartiness of black beans with the sweetness of corn and the creaminess of ripe avocado, all tied together by a zesty, citrus-infused dressing.

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Perfect as a stand-alone main dish or a refreshing lunch, this Mexican-inspired bowl provides a satisfying balance of textures. It is a nourishing way to fuel your day without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 ripe avocado, diced
• 1 cup canned corn kernels, drained and rinsed
• 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
• 1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• Juice of 1 lime
• 1 teaspoon honey or agave syrup (for vegan)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon pumpkin seeds (optional topping)
• 2 tablespoons crumbled feta cheese (optional topping, omit for vegan)

Instructions

Step 1

In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, fresh lime juice, honey or agave syrup, ground cumin, salt, and pepper to create the zesty dressing.

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained black beans, rinsed corn, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced red onion (if using), and half of the chopped cilantro.

Step 3

Pour the dressing over the bean and vegetable mixture, tossing gently to ensure everything is evenly coated.

Step 4

Divide the prepared mixture between two serving bowls. Top each with the diced avocado, the remaining cilantro, and optional pumpkin seeds or feta cheese.

Step 5

Serve immediately to enjoy the freshest flavors and best texture.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For the best results, ensure your canned black beans and corn are thoroughly rinsed and drained to prevent any excess liquid from thinning the dressing. Use a perfectly ripe avocado for that signature creamy finish.

Varianten und Anpassungen

To make this meal even heartier, consider adding a base of cooked quinoa or brown rice. If you prefer a spicy kick, add some finely chopped jalapeño or a pinch of red chili flakes to the dressing.

Serviervorschläge

This bowl is excellent for meal prep; simply keep the dressing and avocado separate until you are ready to eat. It serves two as a main dish but also works beautifully as a side for grilled proteins.

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Whether you follow a plant-based diet or simply want a fresh and easy meal, this Black Bean and Veggie Bowl is a delicious solution that never compromises on taste.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the vegetable and bean mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and add the avocado and dressing just before serving to maintain freshness.

→ What can I add to make it more filling?

Add cooked quinoa, brown rice, or cauliflower rice for extra heartiness. You can also include roasted sweet potatoes, grilled corn, or a serving of your favorite protein like grilled chicken or shrimp.

→ How long does the dressing stay fresh?

The lime dressing will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 5 days when stored in a sealed container. Give it a good shake or whisk before using, as the ingredients may separate slightly.

→ Can I use frozen corn instead of canned?

Absolutely! Thaw frozen corn completely and drain any excess liquid before adding to the bowl. You can also lightly sauté the thawed corn for a few minutes to enhance its natural sweetness.

→ What other vegetables work well in this bowl?

Bell peppers, cucumber, shredded carrots, radishes, or jicama all add great crunch and flavor. Roasted vegetables like zucchini or sweet potatoes also complement the black beans beautifully.

→ Is this suitable for meal prep?

This bowl is excellent for meal prep. Assemble the bean and vegetable mixture in containers, store the dressing separately, and add fresh avocado and toppings when ready to eat.