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–+ servings

Summer Grain Bowl with Browned Corn, Black Beans, Chiles & Arugula Dinner Recipe

This quick and flavorful dinner recipe brings together a Southwestern-inspired grain bowl with caramelized corn, earthy black beans, and spicy pickled chiles.
Perfect for warm summer evenings, this versatile dish uses whole grains, fresh vegetables, and a tangy dressing for a balanced and satisfying meal.
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Cook Time 25 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine Southwestern United States
Servings 4

Equipment

  • Broiler or grill
  • Baking sheet

Ingredients
  

  • 2 to 3 garlic cloves grated or mashed
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 ears of corn shucked (yields about 2 cups kernels)
  • 4 cups warm cooked grains (quinoa, brown rice, barley, or a mix)
  • 2 cups arugula
  • 2 cups halved cherry tomatoes
  • 2 cups cooked and drained black beans homemade or canned, rinsed
  • 1 ripe avocado sliced (optional)
  • ¼ cup chopped pickled jalapeño
  • ¼ cup toasted pine nuts or chopped peanuts

Instructions
 

  • Mix the Dressing: In a small mixing bowl, combine the garlic, kosher salt, ground cumin, and lime juice. Slowly whisk in the olive oil until the dressing is smooth and well combined. Set it aside.
  • Cook the Corn: Preheat the broiler and move the oven rack to the highest position near the heat. Place the shucked corn on a baking sheet and broil, turning occasionally, until the kernels develop a rich, golden-brown color, about 7 to 10 minutes. Alternatively, you can grill the corn. Once browned, allow it to cool slightly, then cut the kernels off the cob.
  • Prepare the Bowls: Distribute the warm grains evenly among four serving bowls. Arrange the corn, arugula, halved cherry tomatoes, black beans, and avocado slices (if using) over the grains in separate sections for a colorful presentation.
  • Finish with Toppings and Dressing: Sprinkle each bowl with the pickled jalapeños and toasted pine nuts or peanuts. Either drizzle the prepared dressing over the top of the bowls or serve it on the side for guests to add as desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

Grain Options: For a gluten-free version, stick to quinoa or rice. Red quinoa adds a nutty flavor that pairs well with the corn.
Protein Add-ins: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a heartier dinner.
Storage: Store components separately to keep them fresh. Assemble just before serving.
Keyword dinner recipe, easy dinner ideas with grains, grain bowl dinner recipe, healthy dinner with black beans and corn, summer dinner bowl, whole grain dinner recipe
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