Mediterranean Flavorful Rice and Black Bean Burritos
Wholesome, hearty, and packed with smoky, citrusy flavor inspired by Mediterranean simplicity.
Total Time: 35 minutes
Prep: 10 minutes | Cook: 25 minutes | Serves: 6 burritos
Ingredients
1 tbsp high-heat oil (avocado, canola, or olive oil)
1 yellow onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, diced
2 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp salt
2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, drained and rinsed
½ cup water
2 tbsp tomato paste
3 cups cooked brown rice
Juice of 2 limes (plus more to taste)
Chopped cilantro (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
6 burrito-sized tortillas
Instructions
Sauté the Aromatics:
Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until translucent. Stir in the diced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Season the Base:
Add cumin, smoked paprika, and salt. Stir for 30 seconds to bloom the spices.
Add the Beans & Sauce:
Mix in the black beans, tomato paste, and water. Stir well and simmer for about 5–7 minutes, letting the flavors meld and the sauce thicken slightly.
Add the Rice & Lime Juice:
Stir in the cooked brown rice and lime juice. Cook for another 2–3 minutes, just until heated through. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or more lime juice.
Assemble the Burritos:
Lay out each tortilla, spoon a generous portion of the rice and bean mixture in the center, and sprinkle with chopped cilantro if using. Fold the sides over and roll tightly.
Optional Crisping Step:
Heat a nonstick pan or grill pan over medium heat and toast the burritos for 1–2 minutes on each side until golden and slightly crispy.
Serve:
Slice in half and serve warm with a side of Greek yogurt, tzatziki, or a drizzle of olive oil and lemon for a Mediterranean twist.
Tips
Use fresh lime juice: Bottled juice won’t have the same brightness. Freshly squeezed lime adds that zesty punch that balances the smoky spices.
Don’t skip toasting the spices: Cooking cumin and paprika in oil for 30 seconds intensifies their flavor and gives the filling a rich, deep aroma.
Keep the filling moist: If the mixture gets too dry, add a splash more water or a drizzle of olive oil to keep it soft and easy to wrap.
Warm your tortillas: A quick pass over a hot pan or a few seconds in the microwave keeps them flexible and prevents tearing while rolling.
Don’t overfill: Use about ½ cup of filling per burrito to make rolling easier and keep everything neatly contained.
Add crunch or creaminess: For texture balance, pair with fresh lettuce, avocado, or a dollop of Greek yogurt.
Variations
Mediterranean Fusion Twist: Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or roasted red peppers for a briny Mediterranean boost.
Cheesy Option: Sprinkle feta or shredded mozzarella inside before rolling for a creamy, melty layer.
Make it spicy: Add chili flakes or harissa paste for a touch of heat.
Add veggies: Mix in corn, spinach, or diced zucchini for extra nutrients and color.
Protein Boost: Stir in grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a heartier version.
Low-carb option: Swap the tortilla for collard greens or lettuce wraps to lighten it up.
Meal prep friendly: The filling stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days—assemble fresh burritos as needed for quick lunches.
Q&A
Q: Can I make these burritos ahead of time?
A: Yes. You can prep the filling up to 4 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When ready to eat, warm the filling, assemble the burrito, and toast it lightly for a fresh taste.
Q: Can I freeze the burritos?
A: Absolutely. Wrap each burrito tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave until hot all the way through.
Q: How can I make these burritos vegan or dairy-free?
A: The base recipe is already vegan. Just avoid adding cheese or yogurt-based toppings. You can also use plant-based cheese or cashew cream if you want a creamy element.
Q: Can I use canned beans straight from the tin?
A: Yes, just drain and rinse them well to remove excess sodium and improve texture.
Q: What side dishes go well with these burritos?
A: Try a simple Mediterranean salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of tzatziki or hummus for dipping.
Nutrition
(per burrito, approx.)
Calories: 380–420 kcal
Protein: 13 g
Carbohydrates: 62 g
Fiber: 11 g
Fat: 10 g
Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
Sodium: 480 mg
Sugar: 4 g
(Values may vary depending on the tortilla type, added cheese, or oil used.)
Conclusion
These Mediterranean Rice and Black Bean Burritos are a satisfying fusion of wholesome ingredients and bold flavors. The combination of spiced black beans, nutty brown rice, and tangy lime makes them both nourishing and filling. They’re perfect for meal prep, travel lunches, or an easy weeknight dinner.
Whether you enjoy them as-is or customize with Mediterranean touches like feta, olives, or roasted peppers, these burritos bring a fresh and flavorful twist to a classic comfort meal — simple, hearty, and delicious every time.