Try out these Smashed Beans for a healthy and easy Mexican bean recipe you can get on the table in less than 15 minutes.
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Keep your Mexican inspired meals healthy with a Smashed Beans recipe that is vegan, gluten-free, and vegetarian. It's an easy and healthy side dish or appetizer dip recipe that uses both canned pinto beans and black beans, bringing both health and convenience.
Beans are something I almost always love, but sometimes still think about new ways to get them more flavor. Though their thick texture is satisfying, that same texture can -- if not seasoned correctly -- also soak up any inadequate seasoning, leaving just a bland and mushy experience. Not fun.
Therefore, a few weeks ago, when visiting my mom for a girls' weekend trip and thinking up some sides for fish tacos I created this mashed bean side. I set out to make something chunkier, zestier, and with more complexity than typical refried beans. I'm more than happy with the end result and I hope you are too.
What are the best seasonings for Mexican beans?
Garlic, coriander, cumin, and red pepper or chili powder (depending on how spicy you want to go) are fantastic seasonings for Mexican beans. They offer savory and smoky notes with just the right amount of heat. Also, don't forget to season with salt! That brings out all the flavor.
How do you make beans taste good?
Proper seasoning is the trick to beans delicious! Make sure to add all the seasonings listed, to salt amply, and use an acid like lime juice. The salt, heat, and acid will provide a full and addictive flavor. I speak from experience. 🙂
How are smashed beans different from refried beans?
Great question! The main difference is the amount of mashing the beans have undergone. These smashed beans still have chunks of beans in them. Refried beans are mostly creamy with only hints of bean parts remaining. If you are more in the mood for refried, then just smash them down until you reach your desired consistency.
Watch my recipe video to see how easy these Mexican vegan beans are to make!
Still Not Sold? This Mexican bean recipe is full of...
- Potassium
- Fiber
- Protein
- Iron
- Calcium
- B Vitamins
- ... and more!
Before you start... cooking notes:
- Drain only your pinto beans-- not your black beans. You will need some of that extra moisture when cooking the beans down and mashing them.
- Feel free to top with whatever Mexican type toppings you prefer! Avocados and extra lime juice would be delicious. I just topped with cilantro because the avocados in the store weren't ripe yet.
Check out our other healthy and easy side dish recipes!
- Super Easy Arugula & Dried Apricot Salad
- Portuguese Potatoes
- Kale and Broccoli Salad with Lemon Parmesan Dressing
- Roasted Romanesco Cauliflower & Potatoes
- Sauteed Yellow Squash & Zucchini
- Air-Fryer Smashed Parmesan Garlic Potatoes
- Air-Fryer Lemon Green Beans
- Kale Salad with Butternut Squash
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Manchego & Figs
- Air Fryer Sesame Kale Chips
Or, check out my complete list of 43 Favorite Pantry Recipes!
If you made and liked this recipe, don't forget to rate the recipe and let me know how it went for you in the comments! It always makes my day to hear from you!
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