Are you ready for a culinary adventure that transports you straight to the sunny shores of Costa Rica? Then get ready to make a Casado! This isn't just a meal; it's a celebration of fresh, vibrant flavors, a quintessential representation of Costa Rican cuisine. Casado, meaning "married" in Spanish, perfectly describes this dish – a harmonious union of rice, beans, plantains, salad, and your choice of protein. It's a healthy, delicious, and incredibly versatile meal that's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a more leisurely weekend feast. Let's dive into this easy recipe and bring a little "Pura Vida" to your kitchen!
Ingredients:
This recipe serves 2. Feel free to double or triple it depending on your needs!
- For the Rice:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- For the Beans:
- 1 cup cooked black beans (canned is perfectly fine!)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- For the Plantains:
- 2 ripe plantains, peeled and sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Pinch of salt
- For the Salad:
- 1 cup mixed greens (lettuce, spinach, etc.)
- 1/2 cup chopped tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the Protein (choose one):
- 4oz grilled chicken breast, sliced
- 4oz grilled fish (sea bass or mahi-mahi work well)
- 1 cup leftover carne asada (shredded)
- 1 cup refried beans
Instructions:
Cooking the Rice:
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- Combine the rinsed rice, water, and salt in a saucepan.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until all the water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork before serving.
Cooking the Beans:
- Heat olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes, until softened.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
- Stir in the cooked black beans and heat through. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking the Plantains:
- Heat olive oil in a separate pan over medium heat.
- Add the plantain slices and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and slightly caramelized. Sprinkle with salt.
Preparing the Salad:
- Combine the mixed greens, tomatoes, and red onion in a bowl.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
Assembling the Casado:
- Divide the rice, beans, plantains, and salad among two plates.
- Top with your chosen protein.
Tips for the Best Casado:
- Ripe Plantains are Key: Use ripe plantains (yellow or slightly brown) for the best flavor and texture.
- Don't Overcook the Beans: Gently heat the beans; you don't want to mush them.
- Get Creative with Protein: Feel free to experiment with different proteins like pork, shrimp, or even a vegetarian option like a fried egg.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of chili flakes to the beans or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicier Casado.
Variations:
- Vegetarian Casado: Omit the meat and add a fried egg or some cheese for extra protein.
- Spicy Casado: Add some chopped jalapeños or a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce to the beans or salad.
- Tropical Casado: Add some shredded coconut or mango slices to the salad for a sweeter twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate, without protein):
- Calories: Approximately 400-500
- Protein: Varies depending on protein source
- Carbohydrates: High
- Fiber: Moderate
- Fat: Moderate
This Costa Rican Casado recipe is a delicious and healthy way to enjoy a taste of Costa Rican culture. It's easy to make, customizable to your preferences, and packed with flavor. Enjoy your "Casado" and the wonderful flavors of Pura Vida!