Hey there, fellow food enthusiasts! If you’re looking for a way to whip up something delicious without breaking the bank, you’ve landed in the right spot. I absolutely love making quick, inexpensive meals that not only save me money but also bring a huge smile to my family’s faces. I remember when I was just starting out in the kitchen, trying to stretch my budget as a college student. This recipe became my go-to! It’s super simple, requires minimal ingredients, and you can have it on the table in no time. Trust me, whether you’re a beginner or just in need of a fast meal, this one will not disappoint. Let’s dive into how to make this delightful dish together!

Ingredients for Quick Inexpensive Meals

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this dish a success. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 cup rice: I usually go for white or brown rice, but any type works. Just make sure it’s rinsed well!
• 2 cups water: This will help cook the rice perfectly; adjust if you’re using a different variety.
• 1 can beans (drained): I love black beans or kidney beans for extra protein and flavor.
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables: Use whatever you have—peas, carrots, corn—easy peasy!
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce: This adds that umami flavor that makes everything pop.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Perfect for sautéing the veggies and keeping things tasty.
• Salt to taste: Don’t be shy—seasoning is everything!

With these simple ingredients, you’re well on your way to a delicious meal!

How to Prepare Quick Inexpensive Meals

Now that you’ve got your ingredients ready, let’s jump into the cooking process! This part is where the magic happens, and I promise it’s super simple. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time!

Step 1: Rinse the Rice

First things first, rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This step is crucial because it removes excess starch, which can make the rice gummy. You want fluffy rice, right? Rinsing is the way to go!

Step 2: Cook the Rice

In a pot, combine the rinsed rice and 2 cups of water. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Once it’s bubbling away, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. Covering the pot keeps the steam in, which is key for perfectly cooked rice!

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

While the rice is cooking, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the frozen mixed vegetables and sauté them for about 5 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re heated through and slightly tender—just the way we like them!

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Once the rice is done, fluff it with a fork and add it to the skillet with the veggies. Then, toss in the drained beans and soy sauce. Stir everything together until well combined. Don’t forget to taste and season with salt as needed—this is where you can adjust the flavor to your liking!

Tips for Success

Here are some of my favorite tips to elevate this quick and inexpensive meal! First, don’t hesitate to swap out the beans—chickpeas work great too! If you have fresh veggies lying around, feel free to toss those in instead of frozen. For an extra flavor boost, consider adding minced garlic or diced onion while sautéing the vegetables; it makes a world of difference! And if you’re feeling adventurous, a sprinkle of sesame oil or some chili flakes can add a nice kick. Remember, cooking is all about experimenting, so make it your own!

Nutritional Information Section

Now, let’s talk numbers! Each serving of this delightful dish packs about 300 calories, with 7 grams of fat and 12 grams of protein. You’ll also get 50 grams of carbohydrates, along with 8 grams of fiber. These values can vary a bit depending on the brands of ingredients you use, but overall, it’s a nutritious and filling meal!

FAQ About Quick Inexpensive Meals

Can I use different vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap the frozen mixed vegetables for whatever you have on hand. Fresh veggies, leftover bits from previous meals, or seasonal produce all work wonderfully!

How long will leftovers last?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. Just reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop when you’re ready to enjoy it again!

Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes! This recipe is already vegetarian, and you can easily make it vegan by ensuring your soy sauce is plant-based. It’s a perfect fit for a vegan diet!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare—ready in just 30 minutes!
• Inexpensive ingredients that won’t break the bank.
• Versatile—customize with your favorite veggies or beans.
• Nutritious and filling, perfect for a busy weeknight.
• One-pot meal for easy cleanup!

Serving Suggestions

This quick and inexpensive meal pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to soak up all those delicious flavors. You could also add a dollop of avocado or a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for an extra pop of freshness. Enjoy it with a light soup for a comforting, hearty dinner!

For more delicious meal ideas, check out this crockpot chicken and rice recipe or these healthy vegetable side dishes!

Quick Inexpensive Meals: 5 Steps to Deliciousness

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• Author: Julia marin
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A simple recipe for quick and inexpensive meals that anyone can make.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup rice
• 2 cups water
• 1 can beans, drained
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt to taste

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Instructions

1. Rinse the rice under cold water.
2. In a pot, combine rice and water. Bring to a boil.
3. Once boiling, reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes.
4. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
5. Add frozen vegetables and sauté for 5 minutes.
6. Add drained beans and soy sauce to the skillet. Mix well.
7. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork. Add it to the skillet and stir everything together.
8. Season with salt to taste and serve warm.

Notes

• Make sure to rinse the rice to remove excess starch.
• Adjust the vegetables based on what you have on hand.
• For added flavor, consider adding garlic or onion.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Various

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 300
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 400mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: quick inexpensive meals