Savor the delectable blend of vegetables and aromatic rice in our irresistible vegetable rice recipe. Packed with vibrant flavors and essential nutrients, it’s the perfect side dish for a healthy and delicious meal.
Looking to elevate your meals with a burst of flavor and nutrition? Look no further! Our vegetable rice recipe is a delightful blend of vibrant vegetables and fragrant rice, creating a mouthwatering symphony of tastes and textures.
Whether you’re a vegetarian, a health enthusiast, or simply a food lover, this wholesome dish is a perfect addition to your culinary repertoire. Quick and easy to prepare, it’s a versatile side dish that pairs well with various cuisines.
Say goodbye to boring meals and hello to a culinary adventure with our irresistible vegetable rice recipe. Taste the goodness today!
Ingredients
Our vegetable rice recipe combines fresh and colorful vegetables like carrots, peas, bell peppers, and onions with rice. A harmonious medley of ingredients adds a burst of flavors and textures to every bite.
** You can find the full recipe ingredients and instructions on the printable recipe card below.
- Olive oil
- White rice
- Garlic
- Vegetable stock
- Carrot
- Whole kernel corn
- Green peas
- Broccoli
- Flat leaf parsley
- Salt & ground black pepper
How to Make Vegetable Rice
Prepare our vegetable rice in a few simple steps: Sauté vegetables, add rice, season with spices, and cook until rice is fluffy. Enjoy a delicious and wholesome dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
** You can find the full recipe ingredients and instructions on the printable recipe card below.
- Add olive oil to the bottom of a large saucepan [paid link] and heat over medium-high heat. Add rice and garlic; cook for 3 minutes or until garlic is fragrant. Stir frequently.
- Add broth, vegetables, parsley, and salt to the pan and bring to a boil. Cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid, reduce the heat to low, and cook for 18 minutes or until the rice is tender.
Recipe tips and kitchen tricks
- Use long-grain rice for the best texture and fluffiness in your vegetable rice.
- Sauté the vegetables over medium-high heat to bring out their natural flavors and maintain a slight crunch.
- To enhance the taste, cook the rice in vegetable broth instead of water.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice or sprinkle fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley to brighten up the flavors before serving.
- Leftover vegetable rice can be transformed into delicious fried rice by adding a beaten egg, soy sauce, and your choice of protein or additional vegetables.
- Customize your vegetable rice by adding diced tomatoes, corn kernels, or mushrooms for extra variety and taste.
- Don’t forget to fluff the cooked rice with a fork before serving to ensure each grain remains separate and fluffy.
- Experiment with different spice blends like cumin, paprika, or curry powder to give your vegetable rice a unique and aromatic twist.
Recipe Variations
- Mediterranean Twist: Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese for a Mediterranean-inspired flavor.
- Thai-Inspired: Incorporate diced pineapple, chopped cashews, and a splash of soy sauce creating a delightful Thai twist.
- Spicy Fiesta: Spice things up by adding diced jalapeños, black beans, corn, and a sprinkle of chili powder for a zesty and vibrant variation.
- Curry Infusion: Add a teaspoon of curry powder or paste, along with diced bell peppers, peas, and raisins for a touch of sweetness.
- Garden Fresh: Take advantage of seasonal vegetables by using a variety of colorful veggies like zucchini, asparagus, and cherry tomatoes for a fresh and vibrant dish.
- Coconut Delight: Add a tropical twist by cooking the rice in coconut milk instead of water, and garnish with shredded coconut and chopped fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor.
- Italian-Inspired: Give your dish an Italian flair by stirring in diced tomatoes, fresh basil, grated Parmesan cheese, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a savory and aromatic twist.
- Lemon Herb Infusion: Add a refreshing touch by squeezing fresh lemon juice and mixing in chopped fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or basil for a delightful burst of flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair your vegetable rice with roasted chicken or fish for a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
- Serve it as a side dish alongside roasted vegetables and roasted lamb chops.
- Use vegetable rice as a filling for stuffed bell peppers or zucchini boats for a tasty and wholesome vegetarian entrée.
- Wrap vegetable rice in a tortilla or lettuce leaves with your choice of protein and toppings for a flavorful and satisfying wrap.
- Serve it as a side dish for barbecue parties or picnics, complementing grilled meats and other summer favorites.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I use different vegetables in vegetable rice? Absolutely! Vegetable rice is highly versatile. Feel free to use your favorite vegetables or adapt the recipe based on what you have on hand. Just ensure they are chopped into similar sizes for even cooking.
Q2: Can I make vegetable rice ahead of time? Yes, you can make vegetable rice ahead of time. Cook and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed, to restore moisture.
Q3: Can I freeze vegetable rice? Yes, vegetable rice can be frozen for future use. Allow it to cool completely, portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as desired.
Q4: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice? Absolutely! While the cooking time may be longer, you can substitute white rice with brown rice for a healthier alternative. Keep in mind that brown rice will have a chewier texture and may require additional liquid and cooking time.
Q5: Is vegetable rice suitable for vegans and vegetarians? Yes, vegetable rice is a fantastic option for vegans and vegetarians as it is made entirely from plant-based ingredients. It provides a satisfying and nutritious meal packed with vegetables and can be customized to suit different dietary preferences.
Wine & Cocktail Pairings
Wine Pairings:
- Red Wine: Pair a bold and robust Cabernet Sauvignon with a savory vegetable rice dish. The wine’s tannins and rich flavors complement the depth of the dish, creating a delightful pairing.
- White Wine: Opt for a crisp and aromatic Sauvignon Blanc to balance the flavors of vegetable rice. Its vibrant acidity and herbal notes enhance the freshness of the dish, making for a refreshing combination.
- Rosé Wine: Choose a dry and fruit-forward rosé, such as a Provence-style rosé, to accompany vegetable rice. The wine’s delicate flavors and light-bodied nature provide a lovely complement to the dish’s subtle flavors.
Cocktail Pairings:
- Classic Mojito: The refreshing blend of mint, lime, and rum in a Mojito complements the vibrant flavors of vegetable rice. The cocktail’s citrusy and herbal notes add a zesty touch to the dish.
- Cucumber Basil Gimlet: The crisp and cooling flavors of cucumber and basil in a Gimlet harmonize beautifully with vegetable rice. The cocktail’s herbaceous and slightly sweet profile complements the dish’s fresh and aromatic qualities.
- Spicy Margarita: For those who enjoy a little heat, a Spicy Margarita with jalapeño-infused tequila pairs well with vegetable rice. The cocktail’s spicy kick adds an exciting element to the dish’s flavors, creating a dynamic combination.
Garden Vegetable Rice
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup white rice , uncooked
- 1/2 teaspoon minced garlic
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable stock
- 1 large carrot , peeled and diced small or 1/2 cup frozen diced carrots
- 1/2 cup organic whole kernel corn , fresh or frozen
- 1/2 cup organic green peas , fresh or frozen
- 1 cup organic broccoli cut into small florets , fresh or frozen
- 1/2 tbsp organic fresh flat leaf parsley , chopped
- 1/8 teaspoon salt , more or less as needed
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
Instructions
- Add olive oil into the bottom of a large saucepan and heat over medium-high heat. Add rice and garlic; cook 3 minutes or until garlic is fragrant. Stir frequently.
- Add broth, vegetables, parsley, and salt to the pan and bring to boil. Cover skillet with a tight-fitting lid, reduce the heat to low and cook 18 minutes or until rice is tender.
Perfect with pretty much anything.
This could be totally low carb by using riced cauliflower. Mmmmm!
I made this for my family last night with frozen veggies and they loved it! I made it along side chicken enchiladas and pinto beans so I squeezed a half of a lime over the rice before serving and it was delicious! Thanks for a great recipe that I can adapt with different veggies :)
Hi Tiffany! I’m so glad you liked it. Thanks for stopping by to let me know!