Broccoli Rice Red Pepper Recipe Vegetarian and Delicious

Welcome to a delightful journey of flavors and wholesome goodness with our Broccoli Rice Red Pepper Recipe. This vegetarian dish perfectly balances vibrant colors, textures, and nutrition, making it a fantastic addition to your weekly meal rotation.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or simply looking to add more vegetables to your plate, this recipe offers a fresh, easy-to-make option that’s both satisfying and nourishing.

Combining the subtle crunch of broccoli rice with the sweet, slightly smoky notes of red bell pepper, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that can be served as a main course or a side. It’s quick to prepare, uses common pantry ingredients, and is completely customizable to suit your taste preferences.

Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free, low in calories, and packed with fiber and vitamins.

Get ready to whip up a vibrant, healthy meal that’s as beautiful on the plate as it is delicious on the palate. Let’s dive right in and discover why this broccoli rice and red pepper combo deserves a spot in your recipe collection!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Broccoli Rice Red Pepper dish stands out for a variety of reasons. First, it’s incredibly nutritious, loaded with vitamins C and K from broccoli and red bell peppers, essential for immune support and bone health.

The texture is wonderfully satisfying, with the tender yet slightly crisp broccoli “rice” contrasting beautifully with the soft, roasted red peppers.

Secondly, it’s a versatile recipe—perfect as a light lunch, a side for dinner, or even a base for a grain bowl. It’s ideal for busy weeknights because it comes together quickly without sacrificing flavor.

Lastly, it’s completely vegetarian and can easily be made vegan, making it a healthy choice for a wide range of dietary preferences.

Ingredients

• 2 cups broccoli florets (roughly chopped or pulsed into rice-sized pieces)
• 1 large red bell pepper, diced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish
• Juice of 1/2 lemon
• Optional: 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds for crunch

Equipment

• Food processor (for making broccoli rice)
• Large skillet or frying pan
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Measuring spoons
• Citrus juicer (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the broccoli rice: Wash the broccoli florets thoroughly. Using a food processor, pulse the broccoli in batches until it resembles rice grains. Be careful not to over-process; you want a grain-like texture, not mush.
2. Dice the red pepper and chop onion and garlic: Set aside for cooking.
3. Heat olive oil: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil until shimmering.
4. Sauté onion and garlic: Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
5. Add red pepper: Stir in the diced red bell pepper and cook for another 5 minutes, allowing it to soften while maintaining some texture.
6. Cook the broccoli rice: Add the broccoli rice to the skillet. Stir well to combine with the other vegetables.
7. Season the dish: Sprinkle the smoked paprika, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper evenly over the mixture. Stir and cook for 6-8 minutes, until the broccoli rice is tender but still has a slight bite.
8. Finish with lemon juice: Remove the skillet from heat and squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the dish. Stir to incorporate the fresh brightness.
9. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top. If desired, add toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds for extra crunch.

Tips & Variations

For the best texture, avoid overcooking the broccoli rice. It should be tender but still have a slight bite to keep the dish vibrant and fresh.

• Add protein: For a more filling meal, stir in cooked chickpeas or crumbled tofu seasoned with a bit of soy sauce or tamari.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you prefer a little heat.
• Use different herbs: Swap parsley for fresh basil or cilantro to change the flavor profile.
• Make it a one-pan meal: Toss in some sliced mushrooms or zucchini for additional veggies.
• Use frozen broccoli: If fresh broccoli isn’t available, frozen works well—just thaw and drain excess water before pulsing.

Nutrition Facts

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

Serving Suggestions

This vibrant broccoli rice and red pepper dish pairs beautifully with many meals. Serve it as a side dish alongside grilled vegetables or roasted potatoes for a wholesome dinner.

For a more substantial meal, top with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of feta cheese for added creaminess and flavor contrast. It also works well as a filling for stuffed peppers or wraps, making it a versatile addition to your vegetarian recipe arsenal.

Try it alongside dishes like Lemon Ricotta Pasta With Arugula Recipe for a balanced, Mediterranean-inspired meal. You might also enjoy pairing it with the hearty flavors of Instant Pot Rabbit Recipe if you’re looking to add meat options for non-vegetarian guests.

Conclusion

The Broccoli Rice Red Pepper recipe is a shining example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a nutritious, flavorful meal. It’s perfect for anyone aiming to eat more vegetables without sacrificing taste or convenience.

The dish’s vibrant colors and fresh flavors make it appealing to all ages and ideal for meal prep or quick dinners.

Whether you’re a busy professional, a health-conscious parent, or someone exploring vegetarian options, this recipe will quickly become a favorite. Don’t forget to experiment with the suggested variations to keep your meals exciting and tailored to your palate.

For more vegetarian inspiration, check out our Lion’S Mane Mushroom Crumble Recipes or the Low Fodmap Appetizer Recipes.

Happy cooking, and enjoy your nutritious and delicious broccoli rice with red peppers!

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