Are you ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with a burst of vibrant flavors? Dive into the world of Mexican cuisine with our irresistible Chile Verde Rice and Beans! This dish is not just a meal; it's a fiesta on your plate, combining the hearty goodness of rice and pinto beans with the zesty kick of salsa verde. In just 35 minutes, you can whip up a delightful dish that serves four and will have everyone coming back for seconds. Don’t miss out on this culinary adventure that’s as easy to make as it is delicious—read on to discover the secrets behind this mouthwatering recipe!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup rice
- 1 can pinto beans, drained
- 2 cups salsa verde
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and slightly golden, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning and release the aromatic flavors.
- Pour the uncooked rice into the skillet and stir to coat the grains with oil, toasting them lightly for about 1-2 minutes to enhance their nutty flavor.
- Add the salsa verde to the rice, stirring to combine. The salsa will provide both liquid and flavor for cooking the rice.
- Pour in enough water to cover the rice by about 1/2 inch, typically around 1 1/4 cups of additional water. Stir to combine all ingredients.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 18-20 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Once rice is cooked, gently fold in the drained pinto beans, allowing them to heat through for 2-3 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let the dish rest, covered, for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
- Fluff the rice with a fork, garnish generously with fresh chopped cilantro, and serve hot.
Tips
- Choose Quality Salsa Verde: The flavor of your dish greatly depends on the salsa verde you use. Opt for a high-quality brand or make your own for a fresher taste.
- Customize Your Beans: While pinto beans are traditional, feel free to experiment with black beans or even chickpeas for a different texture and flavor profile.
- Add Extra Veggies: For added nutrition and flavor, consider incorporating diced bell peppers, corn, or even diced tomatoes into the rice as it cooks.
- Perfectly Fluffy Rice: To avoid sticky rice, make sure to rinse the rice under cold water before cooking to remove excess starch.
- Garnish Generously: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of freshness, but you can also top your dish with avocado slices, lime wedges, or crumbled queso fresco for an extra layer of flavor.
- Make It Ahead: This dish can be made in advance and reheats beautifully, making it a perfect option for meal prep or a potluck gathering.
- Adjust Spice Levels: If you like it spicy, consider adding jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mix for an extra kick!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
