Mexican Rice, Beans, and Quinoa Medley

If you’re looking for a dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Mexico right into your home, then you’ve stumbled upon a gem! This Mexican Rice, Beans, and Quinoa Medley is a colorful, nutritious delight that can easily please a crowd. Packed with protein from the quinoa and beans, this medley is not only filling but also bursting with fresh vegetables and zesty spices. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish will quickly become a beloved staple in your kitchen.

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

One of the best things about this Mexican Rice, Beans, and Quinoa Medley is its versatility. It’s a dish that caters to various dietary preferences and can easily adapt to whatever you have on hand. The combination of textures from the rice and quinoa, along with the heartiness of the beans and the crispness of the vegetables, creates a satisfying meal that everyone will love. Additionally, it’s colorful presentation makes it the star of any table!

What Goes Into Mexican Rice, Beans, and Quinoa Medley

To create this delicious medley, you will need the following ingredients:

• 3 to 4 tablespoons olive oil, plus more if needed
• 1 large or extra-large red onion, diced small
• 3 to 4 cloves garlic, finely minced or pressed
• 1 cup dry rice and quinoa medley, all rice or all quinoa is okay
• 3 cups water, or as directed on the package to cook 1 cup dry grains
• One 15-ounce can black beans, drained and rinsed (low-salt)
• One 14-ounce can corn, drained and rinsed (fresh or frozen may be substituted)
• 2 medium Roma tomatoes, diced small (cherry, grape, or heirloom may be substituted)
• 1 medium yellow bell pepper, seeded and diced small (another color pepper may be substituted)
• 0 to 1 serrano chile, seeded and diced micro tiny; optional and to taste (jalapeno may be substituted for less heat)
• 1 to 2 tablespoons cumin, not teaspoons, or to taste
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to taste
• 1 cup finely minced fresh cilantro, or to taste
• 1 to 4 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice, or to taste

What You’ll Need (Gear)

Before you get started, gather these essential tools:

• Large skillet or pot: This will be your main cooking vessel.
• Cutting board and knife: For chopping your fresh ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient quantities.
• Spoon or spatula: For stirring and mixing.
• Serving bowl: To present your beautiful medley.

Stepwise Method: Mexican Rice, Beans, and Quinoa Medley

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced red onion and cook for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute, until fragrant.

Step 2: Add the Grains

Stir in the rice and quinoa medley, mixing well to coat the grains in the oil and onion mixture. Toast the grains for about 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.

Step 3: Pour in the Water

Add 3 cups of water to the skillet (or the amount specified on the package for your specific grains). Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer according to the package instructions, typically around 15-20 minutes.

Step 4: Incorporate the Beans and Veggies

Once the grains are cooked, stir in the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, yellow bell pepper, and serrano chile (if using). Mix well to combine all ingredients.

Step 5: Season to Perfection

Add cumin, kosher salt, black pepper, and half of the minced cilantro. Stir everything together and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 6: Finish with Freshness

Remove from heat and stir in the freshly squeezed lime juice and the remaining cilantro. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more lime juice if you prefer a tangy kick.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the Mexican Rice, Beans, and Quinoa Medley to a serving bowl, garnishing with extra cilantro and lime wedges if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tailor It to Your Diet

This Mexican Rice, Beans, and Quinoa Medley can easily accommodate various dietary preferences:

• Gluten-free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it perfect for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Vegan: All ingredients are plant-based, ensuring that it fits a vegan diet.
• Low-carb: Substitute quinoa for cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option.
• Spicy: Adjust the amount of serrano chile or add a dash of hot sauce for extra heat!

Avoid These Mistakes

While making this Mexican Rice, Beans, and Quinoa Medley, keep these tips in mind to avoid common pitfalls:

• Overcooking the grains: Follow package instructions carefully to prevent mushy grains.
• Skipping the sauté step: Sautéing the onion and garlic enhances the flavor, so don’t skip it!
• Not rinsing the beans: Rinsing the beans removes excess sodium and helps improve the texture.
• Under-seasoning: Taste as you go and adjust seasonings to ensure a flavorful dish.

Best Ways to Store

To keep your Mexican Rice, Beans, and Quinoa Medley fresh:

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to keep it moist.

Your Top Questions

Can I use brown rice instead of a rice and quinoa medley?

Absolutely! Brown rice can be a great substitute, but you may need to adjust the water and cooking time according to package instructions.

Is this dish spicy?

The heat level depends on whether you include the serrano chile. You can adjust the spice by adding more or less, or omitting it altogether.

Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to add any vegetables you love or have on hand, such as zucchini, spinach, or even diced carrots.

What can I serve this medley with?

This medley pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, tacos, or as a filling for burritos and wraps. It can also be enjoyed on its own!

Enhance your meal experience by serving your with:

Bring It to the Table

Now that you have your flavorful Mexican Rice, Beans, and Quinoa Medley ready, it’s time to serve it up and enjoy! Gather your loved ones around the table and share this delightful dish. The vibrant colors, delicious aromas, and heartwarming flavors will surely create a memorable dining experience. Whether enjoyed as a main dish or as a hearty side, this medley is bound to impress and satisfy. Happy cooking and even happier eating!