Print

Southwest Sweet Potato & Black Bean Skillet

Southwest Sweet Potato & Black Bean Skillet

A quick, healthy, and flavorful Southwest Sweet Potato & Black Bean Skillet combining tender sweet potatoes, protein-rich black beans, and a smoky southwestern spice blend. This vibrant one-pan dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, offering a nutritious, satisfying, and versatile meal that fits vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free diets.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables & Legumes

  • 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into small cubes
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, finely chopped

Spices & Oils

  • 2 teaspoons southwestern spice blend (chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Fresh & Finishing Touches

  • Juice of 1 lime
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Peel and dice the sweet potatoes into small, even cubes to ensure quick and even cooking. Drain and rinse the black beans to reduce excess sodium. Finely chop the onion, garlic, and bell pepper.
  2. Sauté Aromatics and Veggies: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant and translucent. Then add the bell peppers and sweet potatoes, stirring occasionally until the sweet potatoes start to soften and develop slight caramelization.
  3. Add Spices and Beans: Sprinkle the southwestern spice blend evenly over the vegetables, stirring well to coat. Add the black beans gently, combining so the beans heat through without breaking apart.
  4. Simmer and Finish: Pour in a splash of water or vegetable broth, cover the skillet, and reduce heat to allow the sweet potatoes to cook through, approximately 8-10 minutes. Once tender, uncover and increase heat briefly to evaporate any excess moisture.
  5. Brighten and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the top and sprinkle with chopped cilantro for a fresh, vibrant finish. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Use uniform cuts for the sweet potatoes to ensure even cooking.
  • Do not overcrowd the pan; give ingredients room to sauté for better caramelization.
  • Toast spices while the oil is hot to fully bloom their flavors.
  • Be patient with cooking the sweet potatoes to achieve ideal tenderness.
  • Adjust seasonings at the end, tasting to balance salt, spice, and acidity.

Nutrition

Keywords: southwest sweet potato skillet, black bean skillet, vegan skillet recipe, gluten free dinner, easy weeknight meals, one-pan meal, southwestern spices