Zesty Lime Refried Beans are a delicious side dish or dip made with pinto beans that are mashed to a thick consistency. With the perfect blend of spices and a hint of fresh lime juice, these homemade refried beans are a flavorful and easy-to-make alternative to canned beans. Garnished with cilantro, tomatoes, and cotija cheese, these beans are sure to become a favorite addition to your Mexican-inspired meals.
These Zesty Lime Refried Beans are a must-try recipe for anyone who loves the rich flavors of Mexican cuisine. Made with simple ingredients such as pinto beans, onion, garlic, and a blend of spices, these beans are cooked to perfection in a cast-iron or stainless steel skillet. The addition of lime juice adds a burst of freshness to the dish, elevating the flavors to a whole new level. Whether used as a side dish for tacos and burritos, or as a dip with tortilla chips, these refried beans are sure to impress with their homemade taste and unique twist of tangy lime.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, finely diced (approximately ½ cup)
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- 2 cans (15 ounces each) pinto beans, undrained
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ medium lime, juiced (approximately 1 tablespoon)
- Cilantro, for garnish
- Tomato, for garnish
- Cheese, like cotija, for garnish
Instructions:
- In a large cast-iron or stainless steel skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. When the oil is sizzling, add the diced onion and cook until very soft, about 8-10 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
- Add the pinto beans, chili powder, cumin, and salt to the skillet. Stir to combine and continue to cook until the beans are heated through, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Reduce the heat to low. Using a potato masher or the back of a spoon, mash the beans in the skillet for 8-10 minutes, or until they reach your desired consistency. Keeping the heat on low will help evaporate the excess liquid.
- Stir in the freshly squeezed lime juice until combined.
- Garnish the refried beans with cilantro, diced tomatoes, and crumbled cotija cheese (or cheese of your choice) for added flavor and presentation.
- Serve the Zesty Lime Refried Beans warm as a side dish for tacos, burritos, or any Mexican-inspired meal, or as a delicious dip with tortilla chips.
Note:
Leftover refried beans can be stored in the refrigerator, covered, for 4-5 days or frozen for up to a year in freezer-safe containers or bags.
