15 Simple Ingredients to Take Canned Black Beans from Basic to Amazing

Elevate your canned black beans with just a few simple ingredients! By adding some flavorful extras, you can transform these pantry staples into a dish that’s packed with taste and texture. From a bit of spice to a touch of creaminess, these 15 easy upgrades will take your black beans from basic to brilliant.

Fresh Garlic

Mince a clove or two and sauté with the beans to add a bold, aromatic punch. Garlic’s savory flavor brings depth to otherwise plain black beans.

Cumin

A sprinkle of ground cumin transforms black beans with its warm, earthy notes. It’s a go-to spice in Latin American cooking and pairs beautifully with the beans’ natural flavor.

Lime Juice

Squeeze in some fresh lime juice for a bright and zesty kick. The acidity balances the beans’ richness, making the whole dish more vibrant.

Cilantro

Chop up a handful of cilantro and stir it in for a fresh, herbal twist. Its bold flavor adds brightness and a hint of citrus to the beans.

Smoked Paprika

A dash of smoked paprika introduces a subtle smoky flavor that instantly makes black beans taste more complex and satisfying.

Diced Tomatoes

Mix in fresh or canned diced tomatoes for a juicy, tangy addition that makes the beans more saucy and full of flavor. Add a pinch of chili flakes if you like a bit of heat.

Jalapeños

For a spicy kick, dice up some fresh or pickled jalapeños and mix them in. This adds heat and sharpness to balance the beans’ soft texture.

Onion

Sauté diced onions before adding the beans to create a caramelized sweetness that adds depth. Red or yellow onions work equally well.

Bay Leaf

Toss in a bay leaf while heating the beans to infuse them with a mild, fragrant flavor. Just remember to remove it before serving!

Avocado

Top your beans with diced avocado for creaminess and richness that contrasts perfectly with the beans’ hearty texture.

Salsa Verde

Stir in some salsa verde for a tangy, mildly spicy boost. The combination of tomatillos, cilantro, and green chilies gives the beans a vibrant lift.

Chipotle Peppers in Adobo

For a smoky heat, mix chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. They add a rich, spicy flavor with a touch of sweetness.

Crumbled Feta or Cotija

Finish off the beans with a sprinkle of crumbled feta or cotija cheese for a salty, tangy bite that complements the beans’ earthiness.

Corn Kernels

Add some sweetness and texture by mixing in fresh, frozen, or canned corn kernels. The sweetness balances the beans’ earthy flavor while adding a bit of crunch.

Bell Peppers

Dice up some bell peppers and sauté them alongside the beans for a burst of color and a sweet, crisp bite.