When it comes to adding flavor and nutrition to your meals, few ingredients are as versatile or delicious as black beans. And when you combine them with canned goodness, the possibilities become endless! In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 spicy black bean recipes that showcase the versatility of these tasty legumes.
From soups and stews to salads and wraps, these recipes prove that black beans can do it all. Whether you’re in the mood for something smoky and savory or bright and bold, there’s a recipe on this list for you. And with the convenience of canned black beans, these dishes are quicker and easier than ever to prepare.
Spicy Black Bean and Corn Salsa
This flavorful salsa combines the richness of black beans with the sweetness of corn, all wrapped up in a spicy package.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1-2 diced jalapeños or other hot peppers (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine black beans, corn kernels, red bell pepper, cilantro, lime juice, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Stir well to combine.
3. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
4. If desired, add diced jalapeños or other hot peppers for an extra kick of heat.
Cooking Time: None! This salsa is ready in just a few minutes.
Creamy Black Bean Soup with Canned Beans
This recipe is a flavorful and comforting soup that’s perfect for a chilly day or a quick weeknight meal. With the convenience of canned black beans, this dish can be ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the black beans, vegetable broth, and heavy cream or half-and-half (if using). Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Black Bean and Cheese Quesadillas
Satisfy your cravings with these flavorful and easy-to-make Black Bean and Cheese Quesadillas, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar work well)
– 4 large tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: salsa, sour cream, avocado, cilantro for toppings
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in black beans and cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
5. In a separate pan or griddle, place a tortilla and sprinkle with shredded cheese.
6. Spoon the black bean mixture onto half of the tortilla, then fold the other half to enclose.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
8. Flip and cook for an additional minute.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes total.
Easy Black Bean and Rice Burritos
Satisfy your hunger with these flavorful and filling burritos packed with tender black beans, savory rice, and melted cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunch on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup diced onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Tortilla wraps (8-10 inches)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the cooked black beans and cooked rice. Cook until heated through.
5. Warm tortilla wraps according to package instructions.
6. Spoon the bean and rice mixture onto a tortilla wrap, followed by shredded cheese.
7. Fold the bottom half of the tortilla up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll into a tight burrito.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Black Bean and Avocado Salad
This refreshing salad combines the creamy richness of avocado with the savory flavor of black beans, making it a perfect side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine black beans, avocado, and red bell pepper.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the top and sprinkle with cilantro.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Smoky Black Bean Chili
A hearty and flavorful chili recipe that combines the richness of black beans with a hint of smokiness from chipotle peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the black beans, diced tomatoes, chipotle pepper, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let chili cook for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Black Bean and Sweet Potato Tacos
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with the savory flavor of black beans, all wrapped up in a crunchy taco shell. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, salsa, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss sweet potatoes with 1/2 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1/2 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and bell pepper; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add black beans to the skillet and stir to combine with vegetables. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos by spooning bean and sweet potato mixture onto tortillas and adding desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Quick Black Bean Hummus
This recipe is a twist on traditional hummus, substituting black beans for chickpeas to add a boost of fiber and protein. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can enjoy this tasty dip in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Drain and rinse the black beans.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine the black beans, lemon juice, tahini, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
4. With the blender running, slowly pour in the olive oil.
5. Continue blending until the hummus is creamy and smooth.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Serve: with tortilla chips, pita bread, or vegetables for a healthy snack.
Black Bean and Mango Salsa Wraps
Wrap up the flavor with this unique fusion of black beans, sweet mango, and spicy salsa! Perfect for a quick lunch or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/2 cup store-bought or homemade salsa
– 4 large flour tortillas
– 1/4 cup shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar)
– Optional toppings: diced avocado, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat a dry skillet or grill over medium-high heat.
2. Place a tortilla in the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds on each side, until slightly charred and pliable.
3. Spread 1/4 cup of black beans down the center of the tortilla, leaving a small border at both ends.
4. Top with mango slices, then spoon salsa over the top.
5. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the salsa.
6. Fold the bottom edge up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll into a neat package.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including tortilla warming)
Black Bean and Quinoa Stuffed Peppers
Add some excitement to your meal routine with this flavorful and nutritious recipe! These stuffed peppers combine the creamy goodness of black beans and quinoa with a pop of color from bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheese for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the tops of the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix together black beans, quinoa, onion, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each pepper with the bean-quinoa mixture, filling to the top.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the peppers and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes, or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Black Bean and Spinach Enchiladas
This recipe combines the flavors of Mexico with the nutrition of spinach, making it a perfect blend of taste and health. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 can enchilada sauce
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in black beans and spinach. Cook for an additional minute.
4. In a separate pan, warm tortillas over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side.
5. Assemble enchiladas by spooning the bean mixture onto a tortilla, rolling up, and placing seam-side down in a baking dish. Repeat with remaining tortillas.
6. Pour enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas and sprinkle with cheese (if using).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Black Bean and Corn Fritters
These crispy fritters are packed with flavor from the combination of black beans, corn, and spices. Perfect for a snack or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine black beans, corn kernels, flour, baking powder, paprika, and salt.
2. Stir in the beaten egg until the mixture is well combined.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Using a spoon, drop small portions of the bean-corn mixture into the hot oil.
5. Flatten each fritter slightly with a spatula to help it cook evenly.
6. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Drain fritters on paper towels and serve warm.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes
Black Bean and Tomato Stew
This flavorful stew is a perfect blend of protein-rich black beans, juicy tomatoes, and aromatic spices. Serve with crusty bread or over rice for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups diced fresh tomatoes (or 1 can crushed tomatoes)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté onion, garlic, and red bell pepper in a little oil until softened.
2. Add cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper; cook for 1 minute.
3. Stir in black beans, diced tomatoes (or crushed), and vegetable broth.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Black Bean and Chicken Taco Bowls
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional tacos, these bowls are perfect for a quick and easy dinner. With the combination of tender chicken, creamy black beans, and crunchy toppings, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced avocado, sour cream, salsa, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the chicken until browned and cooked through.
3. Add onion, garlic, cumin, and chili powder to the skillet; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in black beans and season with salt and pepper.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble bowls by placing chicken and bean mixture onto a tortilla, followed by desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Black Bean and Egg Breakfast Burritos
Start your day with a flavorful and filling breakfast burrito packed with black beans, scrambled eggs, and cheese. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for a quick morning meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 4 eggs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 2 large tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, scramble the eggs and set aside.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the black beans to the skillet and stir to combine with the garlic and oil. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the beans are heated through.
4. Add the scrambled eggs to the skillet and stir to combine with the black beans. Cook until the eggs are fully set.
5. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble the burritos by spooning the egg and bean mixture onto one half of each tortilla, then top with shredded cheese. Fold the tortillas in half to enclose.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Black Bean and Coconut Curry
This flavorful curry is a perfect blend of spices, beans, and creamy coconut milk. Serve it over rice or with naan bread for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can coconut milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pan, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat.
2. Add onions, garlic, and ginger; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add black beans, coconut milk, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Garnish with cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Black Bean and Lime Cilantro Rice
Elevate your rice game with this flavorful recipe that combines the nutty taste of black beans, the brightness of lime juice, and the freshness of cilantro. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish for your next fiesta!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer until the water runs clear.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until lightly toasted.
4. Add the black beans, lime juice, and water to the saucepan.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
6. Fluff with a fork and stir in chopped cilantro.
7. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Black Bean and Chorizo Skillet
This recipe combines the flavors of Mexico with a twist of Spanish flair, resulting in a bold and satisfying skillet dish. With tender black beans, spicy chorizo, and sweet onions, this meal is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 lb chorizo sausage, sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chorizo and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in the cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Add the black beans, red bell pepper, and a splash of water (if needed).
6. Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and crusty bread.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Summary
Discover the versatility of canned black beans with these 18 spicy recipes! From soups to salads, burritos to bowls, and quesadillas to fritters, there’s something for everyone. Try your hand at making Spicy Black Bean and Corn Salsa, Creamy Black Bean Soup, or Black Bean and Cheese Quesadillas. Or get adventurous with Smoky Black Bean Chili, Black Bean and Sweet Potato Tacos, or Quick Black Bean Hummus. Whatever your taste buds crave, these recipes are sure to satisfy. Get cooking and enjoy the flavor of black beans in a whole new way!