Name: Kale, Black Bean, and Avocado Burrito Bowl Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 cup brown rice; ¼ tsp salt; 2 oz curly kale; ¼ cup lime juice; 2 tbsp olive oil; ½ pc Jalapeno; ½ tsp cumin; ¼ tsp salt; 1 pc avocado; ½ cup salsa verde; ½ cup fresh cilantro leaves; 2 tbsp lime juice; 2 cans black beans; 1 pc shallot; 3 pcs garlic; ¼ tsp chili powder; ¼ tsp Cayenne pepper; cherry tomatoes; hot sauce

This delightful kale, black bean, and avocado burrito bowl recipe is not only delicious but also highly nutritious. It combines the savory goodness of black beans and brown rice with the rich, creamy texture of avocado. The kale adds a refreshing crunch and a boost of health benefits, rounding off this dish as a perfect meal that's both satisfying and good for you.

Photos of Kale, Black Bean, and Avocado Burrito Bowl Recipe

Most of the ingredients for this recipe are readily available in regular grocery stores. However, curly kale and salsa verde might not be familiar to some. Curly kale is a type of green leafy vegetable that's high in nutrients and gives this dish its distinctive flavor. Salsa verde, on the other hand, is a type of green salsa made from tomatillos. Both these ingredients can usually be found in the produce and international food aisles respectively.

Ingredients for Kale, Black Bean, and Avocado Burrito Bowl

Brown rice: A whole grain that is both filling and nutritious.

Curly kale: A nutrient-dense green that adds a nice crunch and color to the dish.

Lime juice: Adds a tangy freshness that brightens the flavors.

Olive oil: Used for sautéing, it adds a rich flavor.

Jalapeno: Gives a spicy kick to the dish.

Cumin: A warm spice that adds depth of flavor.

Avocado: Creamy and rich, it adds a nice contrast to the other flavors.

Salsa verde: A tangy green salsa that adds a Mexican flair.

Cilantro leaves: Herby and fresh, it brings a burst of flavor.

Black beans: High in protein and fiber, they make the dish hearty and substantial.

Shallot: Adds a delicate onion flavor.

Garlic: Brings a savory depth to the dish.

Chili powder: Adds a hint of heat and rich flavor.

Cayenne pepper: Brings on the heat in this dish.

Cherry tomatoes: Adds a burst of juicy sweetness.

One reader, Cynthy Meeks says:

This kale, black bean, and avocado burrito bowl recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are so vibrant and fresh. The combination of the creamy avocado, hearty black beans, and zesty lime juice is simply divine. It's a healthy and satisfying meal that I can't get enough of!

Cynthy Meeks

Techniques Required for Making a Flavorful Burrito Bowl

How to cook brown rice: Boil the rinsed brown rice in a pot of water for 30 minutes, then let it steam in the pot for an additional 10 minutes before fluffing with a fork and seasoning with salt.

How to marinate kale: Whisk together lime juice, olive oil, chopped jalapeño, cumin, and salt, then toss the chopped kale with the lime marinade in a mixing bowl.

How to make avocado salsa verde: Combine avocado chunks, salsa verde, cilantro, and lime juice in a food processor or blender, and blend until smooth.

How to cook black beans: Sauté shallot and garlic in olive oil, then add the beans, chili powder, and cayenne pepper. Cook until the beans are warmed through and softened, stirring often for about 5 to 7 minutes. If the beans seem dry at any point, mix in a little splash of water.

How To Make Kale, Black Bean and Avocado Burrito Bowl

Surprise your family with a fresh burrito bowl tossed with flavorful veggies, herbs, and spices all in one decadent wrap that you will surely love.

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 30 minutes

Total: 50 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1cupbrown ricerinsed
¼tspsalt
2ozcurly kaleribs removed and chopped into small-bite pieces
¼cuplime juice
2tbspolive oil
½pcjalapeñoseeded and finely chopped
½tspcumin
¼tspsalt
1pcavocadopitted and sliced into big chunks
½cupsalsa verdemild
½cupfresh cilantro leaves
2tbsplime juice
2cansblack beansrinsed and drained
1pcshallotfinely chopped
3pcsgarlicpressed or minced
¼tspchili powder
¼tspcayenne pepper optional
cherry tomatoessliced into thin rounds
hot sauceoptional

Instructions

Bring a big pot of water to a boil, dump in rinsed brown rice, and boil, uncovered for 30 minutes. Turn off the heat, drain the rice and return it to the pot.
Cover and let the rice steam in the pot for 10 minutes, then fluff the rice with a fork and season with salt, or more to taste.
Whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, chopped jalapeño, cumin, and salt. Toss the chopped kale with the lime marinade in a mixing bowl.
In a food processor or blender, combine the avocado chunks, salsa verde, cilantro, and lime juice and blend well.
In a saucepan, warm the olive oil over medium-low heat. Sauté the shallot and garlic until fragrant, then add the beans, chili powder, and cayenne pepper.
Cook until the beans are warmed through and softened, stirring often, about 5 to 7 minutes. If the beans seem dry at any point, mix in a little splash of water.
To serve, spoon generous portions of rice, beans, and kale salad into a bowl along with a couple of spoonfuls of avocado salsa verde.
Garnish with chopped cherry tomatoes.

Nutrition

Calories: 735.14kcal
Fat: 19.82g
Saturated Fat: 2.63g
Monounsaturated Fat: 10.87g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.95g
Carbohydrates: 126.72g
Fiber: 29.18g
Sugar: 15.69g
Protein: 25.01g
Sodium: 2055.15mg
Calcium: 256.61mg
Potassium: 2363.42mg
Iron: 10.11mg
Vitamin A: 238.55µg
Vitamin C: 145.08mg

Pro Tip for Enhancing the Flavors in Your Burrito Bowl

When preparing the kale, it's beneficial to massage it with the lime marinade. This process helps to break down the tough cell structure and gives the kale a softer texture and a gentler flavor. It also helps the kale to absorb the flavors of the marinade more effectively. Simply use your hands to gently rub the marinade into the kale for a few minutes until it starts to soften.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Burrito Bowl Recipe

Prep ahead: Chop vegetables, cook grains, and prepare dressings in advance to save time during meal prep.

One-pot meals: Opt for recipes that can be cooked in a single pot or pan to minimize cleanup and save time.

Batch cooking: Cook large quantities of ingredients and freeze them in portion sizes for quick and easy meal assembly later.

Use kitchen gadgets: Utilize tools like food processors, blenders, and slow cookers to streamline the cooking process and save time.

Plan your meals: Create a weekly meal plan and grocery list to ensure you have all the ingredients on hand, saving time on last-minute trips to the store.

Pre-cut ingredients: Purchase pre-cut vegetables or use a mandoline slicer to cut down on prep time.

Cook once, eat twice: Make extra portions of meals and repurpose leftovers into new dishes to save time on future cooking.

Follow recipes: Stick to tried and tested recipes to avoid wasting time on trial and error in the kitchen.

Substitute Ingredients For Kale, Black Bean, and Avocado Burrito Bowl Recipe

kale - Substitute with spinach: Spinach has a milder flavor and softer texture, making it a suitable alternative to kale in this recipe.
black beans - Substitute with pinto beans: Pinto beans have a similar creamy texture and mild flavor, making them a great substitute for black beans in this burrito bowl recipe.
avocado - Substitute with guacamole: Guacamole can be used as a flavorful alternative to sliced avocado, adding a creamy and zesty element to the burrito bowl.

How to Beautifully Present Your Burrito Bowl

Elevate the rice: Mold the cooked brown rice into a perfect round shape using a small bowl to create a visually appealing base for the burrito bowl.
Layer the ingredients: Carefully arrange the seasoned black beans on top of the rice, followed by the zesty marinated kale to create a vibrant and colorful base for the bowl.
Drizzle the avocado salsa verde: Using a squeeze bottle, elegantly drizzle the creamy avocado salsa verde in a circular motion over the beans and kale, adding a pop of green and a burst of flavor.
Garnish with cherry tomatoes: Place halved cherry tomatoes strategically around the bowl, adding a burst of color and a refreshing touch to the dish.
Add a touch of heat: Finish the dish with a dash of your favorite hot sauce, creating a visually striking and flavorful element that will surprise and delight the palate.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making a Delicious Burrito Bowl

Big pot: A large, deep pot used for boiling rice or pasta.
Food processor: A kitchen appliance used to blend, chop, or puree food quickly and efficiently.
Blender: A kitchen appliance used to blend ingredients into a smooth liquid or puree.
Mixing bowl: A bowl used for combining ingredients together, such as tossing the kale with the lime marinade.
Saucepan: A deep cooking pan with a long handle and a lid, used for cooking sauces, beans, or other dishes on the stovetop.
Fork: A utensil with prongs used for fluffing the rice or mixing ingredients.
Spoon: A utensil with a small bowl-shaped head used for serving and eating food.
Chopping board: A sturdy board used for cutting and chopping ingredients.
Knife: A sharp tool used for cutting and chopping ingredients.
Strainer: A kitchen tool used for draining water from boiled rice or pasta.
Whisk: A kitchen utensil used for whipping and mixing ingredients together, such as the lime juice, olive oil, jalapeño, and cumin.
Can opener: A tool used for opening cans of black beans.
Spatula: A kitchen tool with a broad, flat, flexible blade used for mixing and spreading ingredients.
Measuring cup and spoons: Tools used for accurately measuring and portioning ingredients.

Storing and Freezing Your Homemade Burrito Bowls

The brown rice and black beans can be cooked ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. Simply reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop before assembling your burrito bowls.
Leftover avocado salsa verde can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. If the surface starts to brown, just give it a good stir before using.
Assembled burrito bowls can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, for the best texture and flavor, it's recommended to store the components separately and assemble the bowls just before serving.
If you want to freeze the burrito bowls for later, follow these steps:
1. Cook the rice and beans according to the recipe instructions and let them cool completely.
2. Portion the rice and beans into individual freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
3. Prepare the kale salad and avocado salsa verde, but keep them separate from the rice and beans.
4. Freeze the rice and beans for up to 2-3 months.
5. When ready to eat, thaw the rice and beans in the refrigerator overnight.
6. Reheat the rice and beans in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
7. Assemble the burrito bowls with the thawed rice and beans, and freshly prepared kale salad and avocado salsa verde.
Note that the kale salad and avocado salsa verde do not freeze well, so it's best to make them fresh when you're ready to enjoy your burrito bowls.

How To Reheat Leftover Burrito Bowls

To reheat your leftover kale, black bean, and avocado burrito bowl, start by removing the avocado salsa verde and setting it aside. The delicate flavors and texture of the avocado are best enjoyed cold or at room temperature.
If your leftover rice has dried out a bit in the fridge, sprinkle a little water over it before reheating. This will help restore its fluffy texture and prevent it from becoming too dry or brittle.
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the rice, black beans, and kale salad. Cover the bowl with a damp paper towel to help retain moisture during the reheating process.
Microwave the burrito bowl ingredients on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. The exact time will depend on the power of your microwave and the quantity of leftovers you're reheating.
Alternatively, you can reheat your burrito bowl on the stovetop. Simply transfer the rice, beans, and kale to a saucepan and heat over medium-low, stirring frequently, until warmed through. If the mixture seems dry, add a splash of water or vegetable broth to help reconstitute it.
Once your burrito bowl is heated to your liking, transfer it to a serving dish and top with the reserved avocado salsa verde. If desired, you can also add a sprinkle of fresh cilantro leaves and a squeeze of lime juice to brighten up the flavors.
For an extra burst of flavor and texture, consider adding a handful of crushed tortilla chips or a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese to your reheated burrito bowl. These toppings will add a satisfying crunch and a touch of indulgence to your healthy meal.

Interesting Trivia About Burrito Bowls

Kale, black bean, and avocado burrito bowl recipe is a nutritious and delicious meal that is packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It's a great way to incorporate more plant-based protein into your diet and can be easily customized with your favorite toppings and flavors.

Is Making Burrito Bowls at Home Cost-Effective?

This kale, black bean, and avocado burrito bowl recipe is highly cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as black beans and kale, are affordable and nutrient-dense. The recipe offers a balance of protein, fiber, and healthy fats, making it a budget-friendly and nutritious option. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15. The overall verdict rating for this recipe is 9/10, considering its affordability, nutritional value, and delicious flavors.

Is This Burrito Bowl Recipe Healthy?

This kale, black bean, and avocado burrito bowl recipe is a nutritious and well-balanced meal. The combination of ingredients provides a good source of:

Protein from the black beans
Healthy fats from the avocado and olive oil
Fiber from the brown rice, kale, and beans
Vitamins and minerals from the kale, tomatoes, and cilantro

The use of brown rice instead of white rice adds more fiber and nutrients to the dish. The lime juice and spices add flavor without relying on excessive amounts of salt or unhealthy additives.

To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of olive oil used in the kale marinade and for sautéing the shallot and garlic to lower the overall calorie content
Add more non-starchy vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, to increase the nutrient density and fiber content of the dish
Use low-sodium black beans to reduce the overall sodium content
Opt for a low-sodium or homemade salsa verde to further reduce the sodium intake
Include a lean protein source, such as grilled chicken or shrimp, to make the meal more satiating and balanced

By making these minor adjustments, you can enhance the nutritional value of this already healthy burrito bowl recipe. The key is to focus on incorporating a variety of nutrient-dense ingredients while being mindful of portion sizes and cooking methods.

Editor's Opinion on This Kale, Black Bean, and Avocado Burrito Bowl

The combination of hearty brown rice, zesty kale salad, flavorful black beans, and creamy avocado salsa verde in this recipe creates a delightful burst of flavors and textures. The lime marinade adds a refreshing tang to the kale, while the avocado salsa verde brings a smooth and creamy element to the dish. The sautéed black beans with shallots and garlic provide a rich and savory component. Overall, this burrito bowl recipe is a well-balanced and satisfying meal that offers a perfect blend of wholesome ingredients and bold flavors.

Enhance Your Kale, Black Bean, and Avocado Burrito Bowl Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Guacamole: Create a zesty guacamole with fresh avocados, tomatoes, onions, and a hint of lime juice for a refreshing side dish.

Mango Salsa: Whip up a tropical mango salsa with diced mangoes, red onions, cilantro, and a splash of lime juice to add a sweet and tangy flavor to your meal.

Grilled Corn on the Cob: Fire up the grill and char some corn on the cob, then slather it with a savory garlic butter for a smoky and flavorful side dish.

Pineapple Coleslaw: Mix shredded cabbage, carrots, and pineapple chunks with a creamy dressing for a sweet and crunchy coleslaw that pairs perfectly with the burrito bowl.

Churros: Indulge in crispy churros dusted with cinnamon sugar for a delightful dessert to round out your meal.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Burrito Bowls

Spicy Chickpea and Quinoa Stuffed Bell Peppers: These stuffed bell peppers are filled with a flavorful mixture of chickpeas, quinoa, and spices, then topped with melted cheese for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Mango and Black Bean Salsa with Grilled Chicken: This refreshing salsa is made with ripe mango, black beans, and a hint of spice, and pairs perfectly with grilled chicken for a light and tasty summer meal.

Roasted Vegetable and Lentil Soup: This hearty soup is packed with roasted vegetables, lentils, and savory herbs, creating a comforting and nutritious dish that's perfect for a cozy night in.

Berry and Almond Crisp: This sweet and tangy berry crisp is topped with a crunchy almond topping, making it the perfect dessert to enjoy with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Appetizers and Desserts That Complement This Burrito Bowl Recipe

Appetizers:

Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Combine creamy spinach and artichoke dip with crispy tortilla chips for a satisfying start to your meal. The warm, gooey dip is packed with flavor and is sure to be a hit with your guests.

Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory stuffed mushrooms are filled with a delicious mixture of breadcrumbs, cheese, and herbs. They make for a delightful appetizer that will leave your guests wanting more.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. This decadent dessert is the perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Treat yourself to a luscious strawberry cheesecake, featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake filling, and a vibrant strawberry topping. Each bite is a delightful blend of sweet and tangy flavors.

Why trust this Kale, Black Bean, and Avocado Burrito Bowl Recipe:

This recipe offers a wholesome and nutritious meal, featuring kale, a superfood packed with essential nutrients. The combination of black beans and brown rice provides a good source of protein and fiber, promoting a balanced diet. The addition of avocado offers healthy fats and a creamy texture, while the salsa verde and lime juice add a zesty and refreshing flavor profile. The use of jalapeno and cumin infuses a subtle heat and aromatic essence. With these fresh and vibrant ingredients, this recipe promises a delightful and satisfying burrito bowl experience.

Want to share your tips, tricks, or tweaks for this Kale, Black Bean, and Avocado Burrito Bowl Recipe? Join the discussion in the Recipe Sharing forum and let's talk about how to make this delicious and healthy meal even better!

FAQ:

How long does it take to make this kale, black bean, and avocado burrito bowl recipe?

This recipe takes about 45 minutes to prepare, from start to finish.

Can I use white rice instead of brown rice?

Yes, you can substitute white rice for brown rice in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Is there a substitute for kale if I can't find it?

Yes, you can use spinach or Swiss chard as a substitute for kale in this recipe.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time and store it for later?

Yes, you can prepare the components of this recipe ahead of time and store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When ready to eat, simply assemble the burrito bowl.

How spicy is this recipe?

The spiciness can be adjusted to your preference. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce or omit the jalapeño and cayenne pepper. If you enjoy heat, you can increase the amount of these ingredients.