Spicy Black Bean and Spinach Burritos with Cilantro Lime Brown Rice

August was a busy month! After traveling most of the month for work I figured it was time to post this recipe that I made way back in July because it was super tasty. TJ and I had been going on a lot of long walks after work to help him prepare for Go Ruck (which he completed with his two brothers in August, very proud of them!), and we would come home late and very hungry. I was craving something that was vegetarian, healthy, filling and packed with protein- this fit the bill. Added bonus, I already had most of the ingredients in my pantry. I've made many variations of a bean burrito over the years but this one is by far the best!

Cilantro Lime Rice

• 1/2 Cup brown rice
• 1 Cup water
• 2 Large cloves of garlic, crushed
• 1 Tablespoon cilantro
• 1/2 Teaspoon salt 
• Fresh ground pepper
• 1/2 lime, gently squeezed

Black Bean Burritos 

• 1/2 White onion
• 3 cloves garlic
• 2 Cans black beans
• 1 Small can green chilies 
• 1 Heaping teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 Teaspoon salt
• 1/2 Teaspoon pepper 
• 1 Tablespoon Cilantro
• Cayenne pepper (at least a couple dashes for warmth, more if you like it spicy like me)
• 1/2 Large tomato, diced
• 1/2 lime, gently squeezed
• Splash of water
• Whole wheat tortillas 
• Shredded sharp cheddar cheese, I used Dubliner
• Fresh spinach
• Greek yogurt and chopped cilantro to top the burritos

To make the rice, smash the garlic cloves (remove peel) and sauté with a little olive oil. After they cook a little add the dry brown rice and toast it a little in the pan along with the olive oil and garlic. Add the water and cook according to instructions. Afterwards add the salt, pepper and cilantro. Add more cilantro based on your preference!

Slice the onion (slice not dice!) and sauté them in another pot with a little olive oil. Let them brown a bit and add the garlic. 

Open the cans of beans and rinse them in a strainer. Add the beans to the onions and garlic and add one can of green chilies.  Add the seasonings, lime juice, diced tomatoes, cilantro and tweak the seasonings to taste. Add a little splash of water and let it cook for flavors to blend.

To make the burrito put a little fresh spinach on the center of the tortilla and put a little rice and some of the bean mixture on top (this will wilt the spinach). 

Add a little sprinkle of cheese on top and roll up with a dollop of greek yogurt on top if you'd like. Enjoy!