Loaded Taco Rice Bowl with Zesty Lime Crema
A colorful, protein-packed bowl featuring fluffy rice, seasoned veggies, beans, and greens, topped with a zesty lime crema for a refreshing, creamy finish. Light, healthy, Mediterranean-friendly, and full of flavor without being spicy.
⏱️ Time
Prep: 15 min
Cook: 20 min
Total: ~35 min
🛒 Ingredients
For the rice:
1 cup basmati or jasmine rice
1½ cups water
½ tsp salt
1 tsp olive oil
For the veggie & bean mix:
1 cup cooked black beans or chickpeas
1 small red bell pepper, diced
1 small zucchini, diced
½ cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
1 tsp cumin
½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
Salt & black pepper, to taste
1 tbsp olive oil
For the zesty lime crema:
½ cup Greek yogurt (or plant-based yogurt for vegan)
Zest of 1 lime
1–2 tsp lime juice
1 tsp olive oil
Salt, to taste
For topping:
Fresh cilantro or parsley
Cherry tomatoes, halved
Sliced avocado
Optional: pickled onions or olives
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Cook the rice
Rinse rice until water runs clear.
Boil with 1½ cups water, salt, and olive oil. Cover, simmer 12–15 min until fluffy.
2. Prepare the veggies & beans
Heat olive oil in a pan.
Add bell pepper, zucchini, and corn. Sauté 5–6 min until slightly tender.
Add beans, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir for 2–3 min until heated through.
3. Make the lime crema
Mix yogurt, lime zest, lime juice, olive oil, and salt in a small bowl.
Adjust lime juice to taste for extra tang.
4. Assemble the bowl
Base: cooked rice
Layer veggie-bean mix
Drizzle lime crema generously
Top with avocado slices, cherry tomatoes, cilantro, and optional pickled onions or olives
🌟 Tips
Add roasted chickpeas or baked tofu for extra protein.
Use brown rice or quinoa for a higher fiber version.
Lime crema can be made ahead and stored in fridge for 2 days.
❓ frequently Asked Questions FAQ
Can I make it vegan?
✔ Yes—use plant-based yogurt.
Can it be spicy?
Optional: add ¼ tsp chili powder or smoked paprika. Otherwise, it’s mild.
Good for weight loss?
✔ High fiber, moderate protein, healthy fats from avocado and olive oil—keeps you full.
🥗 Nutrition information
Calories: 360–380
Protein: 12g
Fiber: 9g
Healthy fats: 9–10g