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Vegan Sweet Potato Black Bean Bowls - Simple, Hearty, and Flavor-Packed

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • Sweet potatoes: 2 large (about 1.5–2 pounds), peeled if you like
  • Black beans: 2 cans (15 ounces each), drained and rinsed
  • Cooked grain (optional but recommended): Brown rice, quinoa, or farro (about 3–4 cups cooked)
  • Red onion: 1 small, thinly sliced
  • Bell pepper: 1 large, any color, diced
  • Corn: 1 cup (frozen, canned, or fresh)
  • Greens: A few handfuls of spinach, kale, or mixed greens
  • Avocado: 1–2, sliced or cubed
  • Fresh cilantro: 1 small bunch
  • Limes: 2–3, for juice and zest
  • Spices: Chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, black pepper
  • Olive oil: Or avocado oil
  • Maple syrup (optional): For a touch of sweetness on the potatoes
  • Hot sauce or salsa: Your favorite
  • Dressing ingredients (quick sauce): Tahini or vegan yogurt, lime juice, garlic, water, pinch of salt

Method
 

  1. Heat the oven: Set to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment for easy cleanup.
  2. Prep the sweet potatoes: Cut into 3/4-inch cubes. Toss with 1–2 tablespoons oil, 1 teaspoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon cumin, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and a few grinds of pepper. Add a drizzle of maple syrup if you like caramelized edges.
  3. Roast until tender and golden: Spread potatoes in a single layer. Roast 25–30 minutes, flipping once. They’re done when edges are browned and centers are soft.
  4. Warm the beans: In a small pot, combine rinsed black beans with 1/2 teaspoon cumin, a pinch of garlic powder, salt to taste, and a splash of water. Simmer on low 5–7 minutes until warm and seasoned.
  5. Cook or reheat your grain: If using rice or quinoa, have about 3–4 cups cooked and warm. Fluff with a fork and season with a pinch of salt and lime zest for brightness.
  6. Quick-sauté veggies (optional): In a skillet with a little oil, cook the bell pepper, red onion, and corn 3–4 minutes with a pinch of salt and smoked paprika. Keep them crisp-tender for texture.
  7. Make the lime-tahini sauce: Whisk 1/4 cup tahini (or vegan yogurt) with 2 tablespoons lime juice, 1 small grated garlic clove, a pinch of salt, and 2–4 tablespoons water until pourable. Adjust with more lime or water as needed. Stir in chopped cilantro if you like.
  8. Prep fresh elements: Slice avocado, chop cilantro, and rinse a handful of greens. Squeeze some lime over the avocado to keep it bright.
  9. Assemble the bowls: Add a base of grains and greens. Top with roasted sweet potatoes, warm black beans, pepper-onion-corn mix, and avocado.
  10. Finish with flavor: Spoon on the lime-tahini sauce, add a squeeze of lime, sprinkle cilantro, and add salsa or hot sauce to taste.