Are you craving a mouthwatering meal that's both nutritious and incredibly delicious? Look no further! This Healthy Gluten Free Salmon Black Bean Burrito Bake is about to become your new obsession. Packed with protein, bursting with flavor, and incredibly easy to prepare, this recipe is a game-changer for anyone seeking a quick, wholesome dinner that doesn't compromise on taste. Whether you're a busy professional, a health-conscious foodie, or simply someone who loves amazing meals, this dish will have you coming back for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cans black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup cooked salmon, flaked
- 1 cup brown rice, cooked
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the rinsed and drained black beans, flaked cooked salmon, and pre-cooked brown rice. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of ingredients.
- Add the salsa, cumin, and garlic powder to the bean and salmon mixture. Stir well to incorporate all the spices and create a uniform filling.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom of the dish to create a consistent layer.
- If using cheese, sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the mixture, creating a light covering.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the edges are slightly bubbling.
- Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to settle and the mixture to set.
- Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro just before serving for added flavor and freshness.
- Serve hot, optionally with additional salsa, Greek yogurt, or avocado on the side.
Tips
- Salmon Selection: Use freshly cooked or leftover salmon for the best flavor. Canned salmon works great too if you're short on time.
- Rice Hack: Use pre-cooked brown rice or quick-cooking rice to save preparation time. Make sure it's cooled slightly before mixing to prevent soggy texture.
- Spice It Up: Feel free to customize the spices. Add a pinch of chili powder or smoked paprika for extra depth of flavor.
- Cheese Alternatives: For a dairy-free version, try nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheese alternatives.
- Make-Ahead Magic: This dish can be prepared in advance and refrigerated before baking. Just add 5-10 minutes to the cooking time if baking from cold.
- Garnish Game: Don't skip the fresh cilantro! It adds a bright, fresh element that elevates the entire dish.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This recipe freezes beautifully. Portion and store in airtight containers for easy future meals. Pro Tip: For the most even cooking, ensure your ingredients are at similar temperatures and spread evenly in the baking dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 35mg
