Name: Cilantro Lime Rice with Black Beans, Corn, & Tomatoes Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1/2 cup uncooked rice (basmati or any variety); 1-1/2 limes, juiced; 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided; 1 small onion, finely diced; 2 cloves garlic, pressed or minced; 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed; 1-2 cups corn; 1 can diced green chili peppers; 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilis; 1 small bunch fresh cilantro, chopped or minced; Cheddar cheese, shredded; Greek yogurt or sour cream

Jump to Recipe

If there’s one dish I could eat every week without getting bored, it’s Cilantro Lime Rice with Black Beans, Corn, & Tomatoes. This colorful, zesty combination takes humble pantry staples and transforms them into a bowlful of vibrant flavors and textures. Whether you’re craving something hearty yet healthy, or you want a crowd-pleasing side at your next gathering, this recipe delivers every single time. The punchy lime juice, earthy black beans, sweet corn, juicy tomatoes, and fresh cilantro are a match made in culinary heaven — and did I mention it comes together in less than 30 minutes?

Cilantro Lime Rice with Black Beans, Corn, & Tomatoes Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This easygoing recipe proves that with just a handful of basic ingredients, you can create something truly spectacular. Each item brings its own character to Cilantro Lime Rice with Black Beans, Corn, & Tomatoes, from creaminess to tang, crunch, and rich aroma.

Uncooked rice (1 1/2 cups): Basmati is my go-to for its fluffy texture, but jasmine or long-grain rice are just as lovely.
Lime juice (from 1 1/2 limes, divided): Brightens the rice and makes each bite sing with citrusy notes.
Olive oil (2 tablespoons, divided): Adds silkiness and a subtle peppery flavor; extra-virgin works best.
Small onion (finely diced): A little sweet, a little sharp; the base for irresistible savoriness.
Garlic cloves (2, pressed or minced): Infuses the dish with an aromatic kick that’s absolutely necessary.
Canned black beans (1 can, drained and rinsed): Hearty protein and beautiful color—plus, they soak up all the flavors!
Corn (1–2 cups): I love using kernels from a freezer stash, but canned or fresh are both fabulous for a burst of sweetness and crunch.
Diced green chili peppers (1 can): These bring gentle heat and a lively personality without overwhelming the dish.
Diced tomatoes with green chilis (1 can): The tomatoes add juicy depth while the chilies layer in even more zest.
Fresh cilantro (1 small bunch, chopped or minced): Don’t skimp on this—it makes every spoonful pop with fragrant greenness.
Cheddar cheese (shredded): A finishing touch for creamy, salty indulgence.
Greek yogurt or sour cream: Delivers the cooling, tangy “wow” factor on top.

How to Make Cilantro Lime Rice with Black Beans, Corn, & Tomatoes

Step 1: Cook the Lime-Infused Rice

Begin by preparing your rice according to the package directions, but here’s where you start layering flavor: substitute the juice of half a lime for part of the cooking water. Just squeeze half a lime and add enough water to reach the required total. This little trick gives the rice its signature citrus tang right from the start, making it the perfect canvas for all the colorful additions later.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

While your rice bubbles away, pour one tablespoon of olive oil into a medium skillet set over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and garlic; sauté for a couple of minutes until they become tender and aromatic but not browned. That wonderful aroma in your kitchen? It’s the first sign that your Cilantro Lime Rice with Black Beans, Corn, & Tomatoes is off to an amazing start.

Step 3: Warm the Veggies and Beans

Next, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil, the juice of a whole lime, black beans, corn, diced green chiles, and the can of diced tomatoes with green chilies to the skillet. Stir everything together gently and cook until everything is heated through and mingling nicely. This step is where all those wonderful flavors soak into each other, and the kitchen starts to smell irresistible.

Step 4: Combine Rice, Cilantro, and Veggies

Turn off the heat, then gently stir your fluffy, lime-perfumed rice and a generous handful of chopped cilantro into the skillet mixture. Be sure not to over-mix—you want to keep those ingredients distinct but friendly! The cilantro adds a last burst of fresh, herbal goodness that makes the whole dish taste sunny and bright.

Step 5: Add Toppings and Serve

To serve, ladle the warm rice and veggie mixture into bowls, then customize each serving with a handful of shredded cheddar cheese and a dollop of Greek yogurt (or sour cream if you prefer). The creamy toppings melt in and tie everything together, making every mouthful special. Cilantro Lime Rice with Black Beans, Corn, & Tomatoes is ready to dazzle!

How to Serve Cilantro Lime Rice with Black Beans, Corn, & Tomatoes

Garnishes

Take your bowl of Cilantro Lime Rice with Black Beans, Corn, & Tomatoes to the next level with finishing touches: extra chopped cilantro, fresh lime wedges for squeezing, a scatter of green onions or jalapeño slices, and of course plenty of shredded cheddar and Greek yogurt or sour cream. Each bite will feel like a fiesta, tailored to your taste!

Side Dishes

This dish shines as a main or a side. It’s pure comfort next to grilled chicken, steak, or roasted sweet potatoes. If you want to keep things plant-based, toss in some avocado slices or pair with a crisp salad. Tortilla chips on the side are never out of place either—use them to scoop or add crunch on top.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re feeling playful, spoon Cilantro Lime Rice with Black Beans, Corn, & Tomatoes into bell pepper halves for edible, colorful “bowls.” Or try stuffing it into burritos for a make-ahead lunch. Layer it into mason jars for a picnic, or even wrap it up in lettuce leaves for a light, hand-held snack. This versatile recipe adapts to just about any occasion!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Cilantro Lime Rice with Black Beans, Corn, & Tomatoes will keep beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen as they rest, and the rice stays moist from all the juicy veggies and beans—just give it a gentle stir before serving again.

Freezing

For longer storage, portion the cooled rice mixture into freezer-safe bags or containers, squeeze out extra air, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. While the rice may soften a bit, the overall flavor and heartiness hold up very well.

Reheating

When you’re ready for round two, reheat Cilantro Lime Rice with Black Beans, Corn, & Tomatoes in the microwave or gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth. A quick stir and a few extra fresh cilantro leaves on top will bring it right back to life.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Absolutely! Brown rice brings an extra nutty flavor and a bit more chew. Just keep in mind that it takes longer to cook, so budget extra time and adjust the water as needed.

Is this recipe vegan and gluten-free?

Yes—with the caveat that you use plant-based yogurt or skip the cheese and Greek yogurt toppings, Cilantro Lime Rice with Black Beans, Corn, & Tomatoes is entirely vegan and naturally gluten-free. Just check your canned ingredients to be sure they’re gluten-free, too.

What proteins go well with this dish?

This rice mixture pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, shrimp, steak, or even tofu. You can serve it as a hearty main or as a flavorful side to just about any protein of your choice.

Can I make this dish less spicy?

Definitely. To dial down the heat, choose mild canned green chiles and tomatoes, and leave off any extra jalapeño or spicy garnishes. Most of the spiciness in Cilantro Lime Rice with Black Beans, Corn, & Tomatoes is very customizable to your preference.

How do I make the rice extra flavorful?

For maximum flavor, toast the uncooked rice in a bit of olive oil before simmering, and don’t shy away from using plenty of lime juice and cilantro at the end. You can also stir in a pinch of cumin or smoked paprika if you’re after a little extra depth.

Final Thoughts

This is one of those recipes you’ll turn to again and again—fuss-free, adaptable, and positively packed with flavor. Cilantro Lime Rice with Black Beans, Corn, & Tomatoes is sure to brighten up your table and maybe even become your new “house special.” Give it a try, and let each bite remind you just how exciting simple ingredients can be!

Cilantro Lime Rice with Black Beans, Corn, & Tomatoes Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 27 reviews

Author: lilan
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A flavorful and satisfying recipe for Cilantro Lime Rice with Black Beans, Corn, & Tomatoes, perfect for a quick and tasty meal.

Instructions

Prepare the Rice: Cook the rice according to package instructions using lime juice instead of some water.
Sauté Vegetables: In a skillet, sauté onions and garlic in olive oil. Add lime juice, black beans, corn, green chiles, and tomatoes; heat through.
Combine: Remove from heat, mix in rice and cilantro.
Serve: Garnish with cheddar cheese and Greek yogurt or sour cream.

Notes

You can customize this dish by adding other vegetables like bell peppers or jalapeños for extra heat.
Adjust the lime juice and cilantro to suit your taste preferences.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Mexican