Cauliflower Rice and Black Beans (Easy & WW-Friendly for Two)

I pulled this recipe for cauliflower “rice” and black beans from the food section of the Arizona Republic. I was drawn to it because it looked quick and easy, used simple ingredients, and—best of all—served just two.

I have had many requests over the years for healthy recipes for one or two people, and this is exactly the kind of simple, flexible meal I hope to share more often.

Why I Love this Recipe

• Perfect for one or two people. No big batch cooking or leftovers you’re tired of by day three.
• Simple, everyday ingredients. Everything here is easy to find and likely already in your kitchen.
• Lighter than traditional rice and beans. Cauliflower rice keeps the points lower without sacrificing satisfaction.
• Flexible and customizable. You can change the beans, spices, or toppings depending on what you have.
• Surprisingly filling. Even though it’s light, this keeps me satisfied until the next meal.

How Many Calories and WW Points in Cauliflower Rice and Beans?

According to my calculations, each generous serving has:

• Calories: 329
• WW Points: 4
  To see your WW Points for this recipe, track it in the WW App!
  (You must be logged into WW on a smartphone or tablet.)
• Old Points: 9 PointsPlus

If you count the avocado, this also works with the Old Weight Watchers Simply Filling too.

Ingredients and Substitutions

Here’s what you’ll need, along with a few easy swaps:

• Cauliflower – One small head, riced. You can rice it yourself or use store-bought cauliflower rice to save time.
• Olive oil – Just enough to help the cauliflower soften and brown lightly.
• Canned black beans – Pinto, kidney, or white beans would also work well here.
• Chili powder (optional) – Adds warmth and flavor, but the dish is just as good without it.
• Avocado – Adds creaminess and makes the dish more filling.
• Roma or plum tomato – These hold their shape well and add freshness.
• Green onions – I prefer these over red onion for a milder raw bite.
• Fresh cilantro leaves – Optional, but they add a nice pop of flavor.
• Lime wedges – A squeeze of lime brightens everything up right before serving.

How to Make Easy Cauliflower Rice and Beans

1. Slice the cauliflower head into large chunks, leaving stems on. Use a cheese crater or food processor (affiliate link) or blender (affiliate link) to coarsely grate the cauliflower to get about 4 cups’ worth.
2. Rinse and drain the beans and set them aside.
3. Heat the oil in a medium skillet set over medium heat. When it is hot, add the cauliflower. Stir for 30 seconds, then cover the pan and cook 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Meanwhile, chop the avocado, tomato, green onion and cilantro.
5. When the cauliflower is tender and light golden brown, stir in the drained beans (and chili powder if using) and cook, just until warmed through, about 1 minute more.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve topped with the avocado, tomato, green onion and cilantro. Spritz with lime juice.

Recipe Notes

made a couple of small changes to the original recipe. I added a teaspoon of chili powder (totally optional) and swapped green onions for red onion, which I find a little gentler when used raw.

This recipe exceeded my expectations. It’s a lighter, healthier alternative to traditional rice and beans, with fewer points and plenty of flavor. Peter, my mom, and Rod all gave it high marks — always a good sign.

Recipe Variations

• Different beans: – pinto, kidney, white beans, etc.
• Spicier: – add chili powder, cumin, or chopped jalapeño to the cauliflower rice while cooking. Serve with additional hot sauce.
• Heartier: – add cooked chicken, ground beef, ground turkey, vegetarian crumbles.
• Additional topping suggestions: – salsa, corn, shredded cheese, crumbled queso fresco, sour cream would all be yummy.
• Additional serving ideas: – use this cauliflower “rice” and beans as a stuffing for burritos, tacos, zucchini, peppers, etc.

If you’ve made this vegetarian Cauliflower Rice and Black Beans, please give the recipe a star rating below and leave a comment letting me know how you liked it. And stay in touch on Pinterest, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for the latest updates.

More Easy Recipes for Weight Watchers

If you like this skinny cauliflower rice and beans for two, be sure to check out my other easy, healthy Weight Watchers friendly recipes including:

• This Cumin Scented Black Beans with Quinoa is simple, flavorful bean-and-grain dish that works well as a light meal or side.
• My Chicken + Brown Rice Bowl (serves 1) is balanced, single-serving bowl that’s perfect when you’re cooking just for yourself.
• Another quick cauliflower rice option with bold, taco-inspired flavors, this Easy Taco Cauliflower Rice Skillet is another family favorite.
• This Brown Rice, Tomato and Basil Salad from Ina Garten is light, fresh, and great for warm weather meals.
• Vegetarian Slow Cooker Brown Rice with Lentils is a hands-off, budget-friendly recipe that’s hearty and satisfying.