Can black bean recipe

A simple method to cook and season canned black beans, turning them into a tasty and nutritious side dish in no time! Perfectly paired with Mexican and Tex-Mex dishes like tacos, enchiladas, and burritos.

Black beans are versatile legumes that form the heart of many dishes across global cuisines. These small, glossy beans boast a rich flavor and a creamy texture, making them perfect for both savory and sweet recipes. 

Whether you desire a comforting black bean soup, a refreshing salad, or even indulgent black bean brownies, recipes using black beans are both delicious and nutritious. 

They can easily transform canned beans into a flavorful masterpiece in just minutes, as seen in quick recipes that cleverly combine simple ingredients like onions, garlic, and lime juice.

While canned black beans are technically already cooked, adding in a few simple ingredients and seasonings can enhance their flavor instead of eating them plain.

Ingredients Overview

15-ounce can black beans: I recommend using the kind with no salt. This way you can better control the amount of salt in the recipe and make sure the sodium isn’t super high like in some canned goods.

Lime juice: Add in some lime juice at the end to add a touch of acidity that compliments the rich flavor of the beans and seasonings.

Onions, tomatoes, and garlic: The trifecta of flavor. These are sauteed until softened and fragrant.

Olive oil: This is the cooking oil I used, but you could also use avocado oil, coconut oil, canola oil or whichever cooking fat you prefer.

Seasonings: To add a lot of flavor, I mixed in some ground cumin, dried oregano, smoked paprika, and salt.

Cilantro (optional): This is one of my favorite garnishes to use. It complements the lime juice very well and works with many different types of Latin dishes.

Jalapeño (optional): Adding this pepper is totally optional. If you don’t want any spice, leave it out. If you don’t want it spicy, remove and discard the seeds and veins. If you like it spicy, keep them in.

Ingredients you'll need to elevate canned black beans

1 (15-ounce) can black beans (no salt preferred)

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 teaspoon minced garlic (about 2 cloves)

1 jalapeño pepper minced (optional; seeds and veins removed if you don’t want it spicy)

¼ teaspoon dried oregano

chopped cilantro for serving (optional)

½ large onion, minced

1 plum tomato, minced

½ teaspoon ground cumin

¼ teaspoon smoked paprika

1 tablespoon lime juice (about ½ lime)

salt, to taste

Cook Mode : Prep: 10minutes minutes ,  Cook: 8minutes minutes ; Total: 18minutes minutes , Servings: 4 servings

What is the best way to cook canned beans?

An easy way to cook and season canned black beans to make a delicious and healthy side dish in no time! Serve with Mexican and Tex-Mex favorites like tacos, enchiladas and burritos.S, to prepare this delicious recipe: 

To prepare, sauté onions, tomatoes, garlic, jalapeños (if desired), and seasonings in olive oil over medium-high heat for 5 minutes. This will soften the onions and tomatoes while helping to infuse all the wonderful flavors.

Next, add the canned black beans and bring to a simmer. I recommend using the entire contents of the can, including the liquid, as it’s full of flavor! Choose no-salt-added black beans in BPA-free cans for a healthier option and better overall taste.

Once the beans are simmering, remove them from the heat and stir in fresh lime juice. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt, if needed. Garnish with cilantro and enjoy! If the beans seem too thick and you'd like a soupier consistency, simply add water or broth to reach your desired texture. Serve.

what to serve with black beans?

Black beans are versatile and can be paired with a variety of dishes. Here are some ideas for what to serve with them:

• Enchiladas : Layer black beans inside enchiladas with cheese, sauce, and other fillings.
• Rice : A classic combination! Serve with white, brown, or cilantro-lime rice for a delicious base.

• Tacos : Add black beans to soft or hard taco shells with your favorite toppings like avocado, cheese, salsa, and lettuce.
• Burritos : Use black beans as one of the main fillings along with rice, cheese, sour cream, and guacamole.

• Grilled Meats : Black beans pair well with grilled chicken, steak, or fish for a hearty, flavorful meal.
• Salads : Toss black beans into a salad with corn, tomatoes, avocado, and a tangy dressing for a refreshing dish.

• Quesadillas : Combine black beans with cheese and veggies inside a tortilla for a quick, satisfying meal.
• Fajitas : Serve alongside sautéed peppers and onions with your choice of protein.

• Cornbread : The slightly sweet, crumbly texture of cornbread complements the savory flavors of black beans.
• Roasted Vegetables : Pair with roasted veggies like sweet potatoes, bell peppers, or zucchini for a nutritious meal.

These options can be mixed and matched depending on your preferences, creating a variety of flavorful recipes.

Black Bean Recipe for Special Dietary Needs

Vegan Black Bean Recipes : For those following a vegan diet, black beans are a perfect protein source that can be seamlessly integrated into a variety of dishes. A favorite recipe in my household is a simple black bean taco filling. 

Just sauté onions, garlic, and bell peppers, then mix in cooked black beans, chili powder, and cumin. Serve in corn tortillas, topped with avocado and salsa for a delightful meal! Additionally, black bean soup can easily be made vegan by using vegetable broth, making it a hearty and satisfying choice.

Gluten-Free Black Bean Recipes : Black beans naturally fit into a gluten-free diet, making them an excellent ingredient for various dishes. A popular option is a black bean and quinoa salad, which combines black beans with quinoa, diced veggies, and a zesty lime dressing. 

This colorful dish is not only visually appealing but also packed with protein and fiber. Another great option is to create gluten-free burritos using gluten-free tortillas, allowing you to enjoy all the flavors without any worry! Whether you’re preparing a simple dip or a hearty main dish, black beans provide versatility that accommodates different dietary needs.

Experimenting with various recipes can elevate your cooking and introduce new flavors and textures to your meals. Personally, the versatility of black beans has transformed my weekly cooking routine. 

They offer convenience without sacrificing health, making them a staple in my pantry. So, why not explore the endless possibilities that black beans have to offer? Your taste buds and your body will thank you.