Quick & Easy Spanish Rice with Black Beans & Corn: Your Go-To Weeknight Side Dish
Are you searching for a vibrant, flavorful, and incredibly easy side dish that can elevate any meal? Look no further! This recipe for Spanish rice, jazzed up with the wholesome goodness of black beans and sweet corn, is precisely what you need. It’s a delightful blend of textures and tastes, further brightened by fresh cilantro and a garnish of juicy tomatoes. Whether you’re pairing it with your favorite Mexican-inspired main course or enjoying it on its own, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that fits seamlessly into busy weeknight routines.
Life often gets hectic, and as families evolve, so do mealtime dynamics. With some of my kids having already flown the nest and the teenage boys often out with friends, large, elaborate dinners have become less frequent in our home. My husband and I often find ourselves dining alone, at least once a week. This shift has prompted me to seek out quick, satisfying, and straightforward meal solutions that don’t compromise on flavor. The emphasis here is truly on “quick,” because despite my love for cooking, time is a precious commodity.
Recently, General Mills challenged me to create a tasty pairing for their Old El Paso Enchiladas that could be whipped up in under 30 minutes. The choice was clear and instant – a flavorful Spanish rice side dish. This particular recipe combines the convenience of a ready-made Spanish rice mix with a few fresh additions, transforming it into something truly special without adding significant cooking time. It’s the perfect example of how simple tweaks can make a big difference to a meal, turning an ordinary side into an extraordinary culinary experience.
Why This Spanish Rice Recipe is a Weeknight Hero
Traditional Spanish rice, made from scratch, is undeniably delicious but can be quite time-consuming. That’s why I often opt for a high-quality Spanish rice mix as a base. The market offers numerous excellent brands that provide a fantastic starting point. By selecting one of these convenient varieties and incorporating just a few extra ingredients, we create a side dish that’s not only incredibly flavorful but also remarkably quick to prepare – easily fitting into that under-30-minute target. This approach means you get all the delicious taste without the fuss, making it ideal for busy evenings when you crave something wholesome and satisfying.
The Power of Fresh Additions: Beans, Corn, and Cilantro
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simple yet impactful additions. Fresh cilantro, stirred into the warm rice, instantly awakens the flavors, adding a bright, herbaceous note that truly makes the dish “pop.” Black beans contribute not just a hearty texture but also a significant boost of protein and essential nutrients, making this side dish more substantial and fulfilling. And let’s not forget the corn! Its natural sweetness is a delightful contrast to the savory rice, and its golden kernels add a beautiful splash of color, making the dish as appealing to the eye as it is to the palate. These humble ingredients transform a simple rice mix into a vibrant, well-rounded, and nutritious accompaniment.
Hint: Before considering bean substitutions, read my article called Quick and Easy Bean Swaps for helpful tips and alternative ideas.
Simple Steps for a Delicious Outcome
This dish is not only incredibly easy to throw together but also tastes fantastic, fresh off the stove or even as leftovers. It’s the kind of recipe that becomes a staple because of its simplicity and versatility. Perfect for a quick lunch the next day, it holds its flavor beautifully. Let’s walk through the straightforward steps to create this delightful Spanish rice.
The first step is to prepare your chosen Spanish rice mix according to the package directions. While the rice is busy cooking to fluffy perfection, you can simultaneously prepare your other ingredients. This includes draining the can of corn and ensuring you drain and thoroughly rinse your black beans. Rinsing canned beans helps remove excess sodium and improves their texture.
Once the Spanish rice is fully cooked and still warm, it’s time to incorporate the heroes of our dish: the black beans and corn. Gently stir them into the hot rice. The warmth from the rice will help to slightly heat the beans and corn, ensuring all components are at a pleasant serving temperature. This also allows the flavors to begin mingling beautifully.
Finally, add your freshly chopped cilantro to the mix. Toss everything together gently until all ingredients are well combined and distributed throughout the rice. The aroma of the cilantro mingling with the savory rice and earthy beans is simply intoxicating! Serve immediately and savor every bite. For an extra touch of freshness and color, you can garnish with additional chopped cilantro and a few diced fresh tomatoes.
Perfect Pairings and Serving Suggestions
While this Spanish rice with black beans and corn is the ideal companion for Old El Paso Enchiladas, its versatility extends far beyond. Consider serving it alongside:
- Tacos or Burrito Bowls: It makes an excellent base or filling, adding substance and flavor.
- Grilled Chicken or Fish: A light yet satisfying side that complements various proteins.
- Quesadillas: Dip your quesadillas into this flavorful rice for a complete meal.
- As a Standalone Light Meal: If you’re looking for something quick and vegetarian, a larger portion of this rice with a side salad is fantastic.
- Breakfast Burritos: Believe it or not, this rice can be a delicious addition to your morning wrap!
Customization and Variations
This recipe is wonderfully adaptable. Feel free to experiment with these ideas to make it truly your own:
- Add a Kick: Stir in a pinch of chili powder, cumin, or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for more spice.
- Veggies Galore: Sauté finely diced bell peppers (red or green) and onions before cooking the rice for added depth and nutrition.
- Cheesy Goodness: A sprinkle of shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese melted into the hot rice is always a welcome addition.
- Different Beans: While black beans are classic, pinto beans or kidney beans could also work well.
- Protein Boost: For a heartier meal, mix in cooked, shredded chicken, ground beef, or even plant-based protein crumbles.
- Lime Zest: A squeeze of fresh lime juice and a little zest before serving will brighten all the flavors.
Storage and Reheating Tips
One of the best things about this Spanish rice is how well it keeps!
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, simply microwave individual portions until hot. You can add a tablespoon or two of water or broth if the rice seems a bit dry. Alternatively, reheat on the stovetop in a covered saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I use fresh corn instead of canned?
- Absolutely! If using fresh corn, you can cut it directly off the cob and add it to the hot rice. If you prefer it slightly cooked, you can quickly sauté it for a few minutes before mixing it in.
- Do I have to use a boxed Spanish rice mix, or can I make it from scratch?
- While a boxed mix offers a quick solution, you can certainly use your favorite homemade Spanish rice recipe as the base. Just ensure it’s prepared and hot before you stir in the beans, corn, and cilantro.
- What if I don’t like cilantro?
- Cilantro adds a unique freshness, but if it’s not to your taste, you can omit it. Alternatively, try fresh chopped parsley for a milder herbaceous note, or a sprinkle of dried oregano.
- Is this recipe vegetarian/vegan?
- Yes, as written, this recipe is vegetarian and vegan, assuming your Spanish rice mix does not contain animal products. Always check the ingredients list on your rice mix package to be sure.
- Can I prepare this dish ahead of time for a party?
- Yes, you can prepare this rice a few hours in advance. Reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving. You might want to add the fresh cilantro just before serving to maintain its vibrant flavor and appearance.
Spanish Rice with Black Beans & Corn
IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!
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Ingredients
- 7 ounce box Spanish rice
- 15 oz can black beans drained
- 15 oz can whole kernel corn
- ¼ cup chopped cilantro
- 2 tbsp chopped tomato optional garnish
Instructions
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Prepare Spanish rice as box directs.
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While rice is cooking, drain the corn and drain and rinse the beans.
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When rice is done and still hot, stir in the corn and black beans. Add cilantro and ross. Serve!
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Garnish with additional cilantro and chopped tomato if desired.
Nutrition
The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.
Conclusion: A Simple Solution for Flavorful Meals
This Spanish Rice with Black Beans and Corn recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients and minimal effort can create a truly satisfying and delicious dish. It’s perfect for those busy nights when you need a quick yet flavorful accompaniment, whether for a cozy dinner for two or as part of a larger family meal. The combination of savory rice, protein-packed beans, sweet corn, and fresh cilantro makes for a vibrant side that’s both nutritious and incredibly tasty. Give it a try, and you’ll quickly see why this quick and easy side dish will become a regular in your meal rotation!