7 Rice and Bean Recipes That Are Anything But Boring

Categories: Cooking and Baking | Recipe Roundups

Renee Schwartz February 27, 2026

Sponsored by Beleaves

There’s something so satisfying about starting with a true pantry staple, simple rice, and hearty beans, and turning them into something vibrant, nourishing, and full of personality. With Beleaves’ new rice and beans, you can do just that!

In this roundup, those humble ingredients transform into everything from bold, party-ready salads to cozy soups and one-pan family dinners. Bake chicken strips right over brown rice for an effortless weeknight win. Let navy beans melt into a creamy roasted cauliflower soup, or fold Arborio into a silky minestrone that’s hearty without feeling heavy. There’s even a rich, slow-cooked parve cholent that proves you don’t need meat to achieve deep, savory flavor.

Whether you’re cooking for a crowd, stocking your freezer, or just trying to get dinner on the table without overthinking it, these recipes show just how versatile and exciting rice and beans can be.

Find Beleaves' new Rice and Beans in a store near you!

1. Fresh and Crunchy Quinoa salad with Halloumi Croutons by Adina Markowitz

This salad has all the flavors — crunchy, creamy, salty, fresh, and bright — exactly the kind of bold, balanced profile that works for party salads.

2. Chickpea Stew by Sheindy Unger

Chickpea stew is a delectable Middle Eastern dish. Pair it with a grain, like quinoa or rice.

3. One-Pan Chicken Strips and Brown Rice by Sheindy Unger

This one-pan dinner is a winner. Thin chicken strips are baked with rice and blended vegetables for a flavorful, nourishing meal.

4. Savory Parve Cholent (No One Will Miss the Meat!) by Chaya Surie Goldberger

This rich, slow-baked parve cholent is packed with bold flavor and hearty texture. Thanks to caramelized onions, bourbon, spices, and a classic beans-and-barley base, it tastes deeply savory and satisfying—no meat required. Perfect for serving right away or slow-cooking overnight for Shabbos day.

5. Instant Pot Roasted Cauliflower Navy Bean Soup by Chana Landman

6. Arborio Minestrone by Sina Mizrahi

A good soup on a frigid winter day is like a warm hug from a beloved grandparent; cozy and nurturing. I love making minestrone because it’s packed with vegetables and is so filling it can be a complete meal. I use Arborio instead of pasta to give it heft, without heaviness. The Arborio becomes pleasantly chewy and gives the soup a silky, comforting body. Make it and enjoy a steaming bowl.

7. Chicken and Rice by Menachem Goodman

Who doesn’t love a quick and delicious dinner? And having no dishes to wash is just a bonus. So for those days when you are not in the mood to cook but want something comforting to serve the fam I got you covered.

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