Simple 7-Ingredient Recipe

Dish Name: "Sunshine Skillet Surprise" A bright, savory-sweet one-pan wonder with pantry staples!

Ingredients (7 common pantry items):

1. 1 can (15 oz) black beans (drained & rinsed)
2. 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (or crushed tomatoes)
3. 1 cup uncooked white rice (or instant rice for faster cooking)
4. 1 small onion (or 1 tbsp onion powder in a pinch)
5. 1 tsp garlic powder (or 1 clove fresh garlic if available)
6. 1 tbsp olive oil (or any neutral oil)
7. 1 tbsp honey (or brown sugar, maple syrup, or even a pinch of cinnamon for warmth)

Optional but recommended (if you have them):

• Salt & pepper to taste
• Hot sauce or chili flakes for heat
• Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish

---

Instructions:

Prep Time: 5 minutes Cook Time: 20 minutes Total Time: 25 minutes

1. Sauté the Aromatics:

   • Heat olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat.
   • Dice the onion (if using fresh) and add to the pan, cooking until soft (~3 minutes).
   • Stir in garlic powder (and fresh garlic if using) for 30 seconds until fragrant.

2. Toast the Rice:

   • Add the uncooked rice to the skillet, stirring for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden (this adds nutty flavor!).

3. Simmer the Base:

   • Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juices) and 1 cup of water (or broth if you have it).
   • Add the black beans, honey, and a pinch of salt/pepper. Stir well.
   • Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes (or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed).

4. Fluff & Serve:

   • Turn off heat and let sit covered for 5 minutes.
   • Fluff with a fork, taste, and adjust sweetness/salt as needed.
   • Garnish with fresh herbs or hot sauce if desired.

---

Why It’s a "Surprise":

• The honey caramelizes slightly, balancing the tomatoes’ acidity with a subtle sweetness.
• Black beans add protein, making it hearty enough for a meal.
• Rice soaks up the flavors, creating a creamy, risotto-like texture.

Serving Ideas:

• Top with a fried egg for extra protein.
• Serve with tortilla chips for scooping.
• Pack for lunch—it tastes even better the next day!

Pantry Swaps:

• No honey? Use 1 tsp sugar or a splash of ketchup.
• No fresh onion? Use 1 tsp onion powder + 1 tbsp water.
• No rice? Swap for quinoa or couscous (adjust liquid/cook time).