Dive into a bowl of warmth and flavor with our irresistible Squash and Black Bean Stew with Tomatoes and Green Beans! This hearty Mexican-inspired dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a wholesome delight for your taste buds. Packed with vibrant veggies and protein-rich black beans, it's the perfect comfort food for chilly evenings or a quick weeknight dinner. In just 45 minutes, you can create a nourishing meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Ready to elevate your cooking game? Let’s get started!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups butternut squash, cubed
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Cube the butternut squash into bite-sized pieces, chop the onion, and trim the green beans. Mince the garlic cloves and set everything aside.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Add the minced garlic to the pot and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent the garlic from burning.
- Stir in the cubed butternut squash and cook for about 5 minutes, allowing it to soften slightly. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Next, add the can of diced tomatoes (with their juice), the drained and rinsed black beans, and the trimmed green beans to the pot. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
- Season the stew with 1 teaspoon of cumin, and add salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
- Cover the pot and bring the stew to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the squash is tender and the green beans are cooked through.
- Once the stew is cooked, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you prefer a spicier flavor, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños at this stage.
- Serve the Squash and Black Bean Stew hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or avocado slices if desired. Enjoy your delicious and nutritious meal!
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, chop your vegetables in advance and store them in the fridge. This way, you can quickly throw everything together when you're ready to cook.
- Customize the Spice: If you like a little kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the stew. Adjust the spice level to suit your taste!
- Fresh Herbs: Garnishing your stew with fresh cilantro or avocado slices not only enhances the flavor but also adds a beautiful touch to your dish.
- Serve with a Side: Pair your stew with warm tortillas or a side of rice for a complete meal that’s sure to satisfy.
- Leftovers Love: This stew tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, and reheat for a quick lunch or dinner.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
