Mexican Quickie
A quick and flavorful Mexican-inspired dish featuring seasoned ground meat, spicy salsa, black olives, beans, and rice, perfect for a hearty, satisfying meal anytime.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook ground meat and drain.
- Add chopped onions and cook until clear.
- Add picante sauce, chili beans, water, and black olives and heat until hot.
- Serve over cooked rice.
- Great served with green salad and steamed tortillas.
Tips & Substitutions
For a quicker meal, consider using pre-cooked ground meat or a leaner option like turkey. If you want to reduce sodium, opt for low-sodium black olives and chili beans. You can also substitute the Pace picante sauce with homemade salsa for a fresh twist. Adding a pinch of cumin or chili powder can enhance the flavor profile. Serve with a side of Calabacita for a colorful addition.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is perfect served over rice, but you can also try it with quinoa for a healthier option. Complement your meal with a green salad and warm, steamed tortillas to make it a complete feast. For a refreshing drink, pair it with Frozen Margaritas for a festive touch. This Mexican Quickie is also great for meal prepping for busy weeknights.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in a microwave-safe dish and heat until warmed through, about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway. Alternatively, heat on the stove over medium heat until heated thoroughly. This dish also freezes well for up to 2 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mexican Quickie contains roughly 624 calories, with 27g protein, 119g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (54% of the Daily Value), iron (41% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1329mg per serving (58% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the ground meat with turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based alternative for a vegan option. Just ensure that you adjust the cooking time accordingly, especially if you use a leaner meat.
What if I don't have chili beans?
If you don't have chili beans on hand, you can use black beans or kidney beans as a substitute. Just be sure to add some spices like cumin or chili powder to maintain the dish's flavor profile.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, you can incorporate diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce into the mix. Alternatively, using a spicier brand of picante sauce will also amp up the flavor. Adjust to taste for the perfect kick!
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).