Mexican Food Recipes Easy: 7 Flavorful Dishes to Relish

Name: Mexican Food Recipes Easy: 7 Flavorful Dishes to Relish
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 cup of rice; 2 cups of water; 1 tablespoon of olive oil; 1 teaspoon of salt; 1 cup of black beans, cooked; 1 cup of corn, canned or frozen; 1 cup of diced tomatoes; 1 teaspoon of chili powder; 1 teaspoon of cumin; 1/2 cup of chopped cilantro

June 13, 2025

By:

Julia marin

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Hey there! If you’re looking for a delicious way to spice up your weeknight dinners, you’ve hit the jackpot with this easy Mexican food recipe! I mean, who doesn’t love the vibrant flavors and comforting textures that Mexican cuisine brings to the table? This dish is not only simple to whip up, but it’s also packed with flavor and nutrition, making it a perfect fit for busy evenings when you want something tasty without the fuss. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll have a hearty meal on the table in no time. Trust me, your taste buds are going to thank you!

mexican food recipes easy - detail 1

Ingredients List

Gather these simple ingredients to create a delicious meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table!

1 cup of rice (I like to use long-grain, but any white rice works!)
2 cups of water (or broth for more flavor—yum!)
1 tablespoon of olive oil (for a nice, rich flavor)
1 teaspoon of salt (to enhance all those lovely flavors)
1 cup of black beans, cooked (I usually use canned to save time, but feel free to use dried if you prefer!)
1 cup of corn, canned or frozen (sweet corn adds such a nice touch)
1 cup of diced tomatoes (fresh or canned, whatever you have on hand)
1 teaspoon of chili powder (for a kick of heat)
1 teaspoon of cumin (this brings out that authentic Mexican flavor)
1/2 cup of chopped cilantro (my favorite part—adds freshness!)

How to Prepare Instructions

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the cooking process! I promise it’s straightforward and will have your kitchen smelling amazing in no time.

Step-by-Step Guide

Start by rinsing your rice under cold water. This step is super important to remove excess starch and keep the rice from being too sticky. Just give it a good rinse until the water runs clear.
In a medium pot, combine the rinsed rice, 2 cups of water (or broth if you’re feeling fancy!), 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Stir it all together to mix.
Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once it starts bubbling away, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. You want to keep that steam in to cook the rice perfectly!
Cook for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed. Don’t lift the lid while it’s cooking—this is crucial for fluffy rice!
While the rice is cooking, grab a separate saucepan. Add your black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, 1 teaspoon of chili powder, and 1 teaspoon of cumin. Stir it all together, and heat it over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes. You want everything warmed through and the spices to meld together.
Once the rice is done, remove it from the heat, and let it sit covered for another 5 minutes. This resting time helps the rice fluff up nicely.
Fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains, then stir in the chopped cilantro for that fresh burst of flavor.
To serve, spoon the rice onto plates and top it with the bean mixture. You’re going to love the colorful presentation!

And there you have it—a simple, delicious meal that’s bursting with flavors! Enjoy every bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

It’s incredibly quick to prepare—perfect for those busy weeknights!
Just a handful of simple ingredients—no fancy shopping required.
Loaded with flavor and nutrition, making it a guilt-free meal option.
Vegetarian-friendly, so it caters to various dietary preferences.
One-pot cooking means less cleanup—who doesn’t love that?
Customizable! Adjust spices or add your favorite toppings to make it your own.
Great for meal prep—make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week!

Nutritional Information

Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for each serving of this delicious dish. Keep in mind that these values might vary slightly based on the specific ingredients you use, but it’s a good guideline to follow!

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 250
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 0.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 10g
Protein: 8g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 400mg
Cholesterol: 0mg

This dish is not only hearty and satisfying but also a healthy choice that’s packed with fiber and protein. Enjoy knowing that you’re fueling your body with wholesome ingredients!

Tips for Success

To ensure your dish turns out perfect every time, here are some pro tips I’ve learned along the way. Trust me, these little tidbits can make a big difference!

Rinse your rice thoroughly: This step helps remove excess starch, which prevents your rice from becoming gummy. You want that fluffy texture!
Use a tight-fitting lid: When cooking the rice, the lid should fit snugly to trap steam. This is key for even cooking, so don’t peek while it’s doing its thing!
Experiment with spices: Don’t hesitate to adjust the chili powder and cumin to suit your taste! If you like it spicier, throw in some cayenne pepper or even fresh jalapeños!
Add some acidity: A squeeze of lime juice over the finished dish brightens all the flavors and adds a nice zing. Trust me, it’s a game-changer!
Keep it warm: If you’re not serving immediately, keep the rice and bean mixture warm in separate pots on low heat until you’re ready to dig in. Just remember to stir occasionally!
Meal prep magic: This dish is perfect for meal prep! Make a big batch, and divide it into containers for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.

With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be a pro at whipping up this delicious meal in no time. Happy cooking!

Variations

One of the best parts about this dish is how easily it can be customized! Here are some fun variations to keep things interesting and cater to your cravings:

Southwestern Twist: Add diced bell peppers and corn for a heartier mix. You can even throw in some grilled chicken or shrimp if you’re not strictly vegetarian!
Spicy Kick: If you love heat, mix in some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the bean mixture. It’ll give your dish a fiery punch!
Cheesy Goodness: Top your rice and beans with shredded cheese—like cheddar or Monterey Jack—right before serving. Pop it under the broiler for a minute to melt the cheese for an extra indulgent treat!
Herbaceous Flavor: Try swapping the cilantro for parsley or adding fresh green onions for a different herbal note. Basil can also be a delightful surprise!
Sweet and Savory: Toss in some diced pineapple or mango to the bean mixture for a refreshing, sweet contrast to the savory spices. It’s a tropical delight!
Quinoa Substitute: For a protein-packed alternative, switch out the rice for quinoa. It cooks similarly and adds a nutty flavor to the dish.
Veggie Extravaganza: Load it up with additional veggies like zucchini, spinach, or broccoli for an even healthier meal. Just sauté them with the bean mixture until tender.

Feel free to mix and match these ideas according to what you have in your pantry or your mood. The possibilities are endless, and that’s what makes cooking so much fun!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve got this vibrant, flavorful dish ready, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it to really bring out those delicious Mexican flavors! Here are some ideas that will complement your meal perfectly:

Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado is always a winner! Serve sliced or mashed avocado on the side for a rich, buttery addition.
Fresh Salsa: A zesty pico de gallo or a spicy salsa verde can add a fresh kick. The acidity and brightness will elevate the dish!
Mexican Street Corn: Grilled corn on the cob slathered with mayo, cheese, and chili powder makes for a perfect side that’s both sweet and savory.
Guacamole: You can never go wrong with guacamole! Its creamy texture and flavor make it a fantastic match for the rice and beans.
Chips: Serve some crispy tortilla chips on the side for a fun crunch! They’re perfect for scooping up all that delicious goodness.
Simple Salad: A light, refreshing salad with mixed greens, lime vinaigrette, and maybe some cherry tomatoes can balance the richness of the dish beautifully.
Cheese Quesadillas: A cheesy quesadilla is a great pairing! Just grill some tortillas with cheese and serve them on the side for extra cheesy goodness.
Pickled Jalapeños: If you like a little heat, add some pickled jalapeños on the side for a tangy, spicy addition that brings a nice zing!

These sides not only complement the main dish but also make for a colorful and festive meal that’s sure to impress. Feel free to mix and match based on your cravings or what you have on hand—enjoy your culinary adventure!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

If you find yourself with leftovers (which is likely because this dish is so delicious!), storing and reheating them properly will ensure you enjoy every last bite. Here’s how to do it:

Storing Leftovers: Allow the rice and bean mixture to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. This helps prevent condensation, which can make your food soggy. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: If you want to keep it longer, this dish freezes beautifully! Just portion it out into freezer-safe containers or bags, making sure to label them with the date. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, let it thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating: To reheat, you can use the microwave or stovetop. If using the microwave, place the portion in a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a lid or microwave-safe wrap, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warmed through. Stir in between to ensure even heating.
If you prefer the stovetop, simply add a splash of water or broth to the mixture in a saucepan, heat over medium-low, and stir occasionally until warmed through. This method helps keep the rice from drying out.
Tip: If the rice seems a bit dry after reheating, don’t worry! Just add a tiny bit of water or broth, and give it a good stir to bring it back to life.

With these storage and reheating tips, you’ll always have a tasty meal ready to go, making your life a little bit easier and a lot more delicious. Enjoy your leftovers just as much as the first time around!

FAQ Section

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice works well, but keep in mind it will take longer to cook—around 40-45 minutes. Just make sure to adjust the water accordingly, using about 2.5 cups of water for each cup of brown rice.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can! This dish is perfect for meal prep. Cook the rice and bean mixture ahead of time, then store them separately in the fridge. Just reheat when you’re ready to serve!

How can I make this dish spicier?
If you love heat, feel free to add chopped jalapeños or even a dash of hot sauce to the bean mixture. You can also increase the chili powder or add cayenne pepper for an extra kick!

Can I use frozen vegetables?
Definitely! Frozen corn works perfectly in this dish, and you can throw in frozen bell peppers or peas as well. Just add them to the bean mixture while cooking—no need to thaw them first!

What can I serve with this dish?
There are so many great options! You can serve it with avocado slices, fresh salsa, or even some crispy tortilla chips on the side. A simple salad or cheese quesadillas also pair wonderfully!

You might also like it

Dinner Ideas Easy Rice: 7 Quick & Tasty Options You’ll Love

Delicious Dinner Ideas with Croissants for a Cozy Evening

Not Heavy Dinner Recipes: 7 Light Meals for Joyful Nights

About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.