Are you looking for a quick, easy, and healthy dinner recipe that's also incredibly delicious? Look no further! This white rice with veggies recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, and it's so adaptable you can customize it to your liking. It's a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest – a delicious and nutritious meal ready in under 30 minutes. This recipe is packed with flavor and is a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this easy recipe is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups vegetable broth (or water)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Rice: Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming sticky.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-5 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Add Remaining Vegetables: Stir in the bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are slightly tender-crisp.
Step 4: Combine Rice and Broth: Add the rinsed rice, vegetable broth (or water), salt, pepper, and oregano to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Step 5: Simmer the Rice: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed and the rice is cooked through.
Step 6: Stir in Peas: Stir in the frozen peas during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy: Fluff the rice with a fork and serve immediately. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Tips for the Best White Rice with Veggies:
- Don't overcook the rice: Overcooked rice can become mushy. Follow the cooking time carefully.
- Adjust the vegetables: Feel free to add or substitute your favorite vegetables. Mushrooms, zucchini, corn, and spinach are all great options.
- Add protein: Boost the protein content by adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
- Spice it up: For a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for a creamier texture.
Variations:
- Lemon Herb Rice: Add the zest and juice of half a lemon and a tablespoon of fresh herbs like parsley or dill during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Mexican Rice: Add a teaspoon of chili powder, cumin, and a diced jalapeño pepper along with the other vegetables.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used, but a typical serving provides around 250-300 calories, with a good source of carbohydrates, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals from the vegetables.
This simple white rice with veggies recipe is a fantastic addition to your healthy meal repertoire. It's quick, easy, healthy, and incredibly adaptable, making it a perfect choice for any night of the week. Enjoy!