Herbed Rice and Spicy Black Bean Salad

Ingredients and Weight:

• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 1.5 cups water or chicken broth
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
• 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 1/4 cup chopped parsley
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Preparation Time:

• 15 minutes

Cooking Time:

• 20 minutes

Difficulty Level:

• 2

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Cook the rice according to package directions using water or chicken broth.
2. While the rice is cooking, sauté the onion and red bell pepper in olive oil until softened.
3. Add the black beans, cilantro, parsley, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
4. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the black beans are heated through.
5. Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and add it to the bean mixture.
6. Stir in the lime juice and any remaining olive oil.
7. Taste and adjust seasonings as desired.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 250
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 150mg
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Protein: 10g
• Dietary Fiber: 5g

Dish Characteristics:

• Colorful and flavorful
• Combination of textures (crunchy vegetables, soft beans, fluffy rice)
• Herb-infused and slightly spicy
• Suitable for a variety of meals (lunch, dinner, side dish)

User Comments:

• "This salad was a hit at our summer gathering! It's light, refreshing, and packed with flavor."
• "I love the balance of herbs and spices. It's not too spicy, but it has a nice kick."
• "The herbed rice adds a unique twist to the traditional black bean salad. Definitely a keeper!"
• "This is the perfect dish for a healthy and satisfying meal. It's easy to make and can be tailored to your own taste preferences."
• "I added some grilled corn and avocado to mine, and it was absolutely delicious!"

Special Precautions and Tips:

• If you don't have lime juice, you can use lemon juice instead.
• To make a spicier salad, add more chili powder or cayenne pepper.
• This salad can be made ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 3 days.