Rice and Mixed Veggies Recipe for Easy Healthy Meals

Rice and mixed veggies is one of those wonderfully simple dishes that can be both a quick weeknight dinner and a nutritious meal to keep you energized throughout the day. It’s versatile, colorful, and packed with wholesome ingredients that bring together a perfect harmony of flavors and textures.

Whether you’re looking for a light meal or a hearty side dish, this recipe delivers satisfaction with every bite. Plus, it’s an excellent way to use up leftover vegetables and create a dish that’s as healthy as it is delicious.

If you’re new to cooking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is approachable and adaptable, making it a staple in any kitchen.

In this post, I’ll walk you through a simple yet flavorful rice and mixed veggies recipe, sharing tips and variations to make it your own. You’ll also find serving suggestions and nutritional information to help you enjoy this meal guilt-free.

Ready to dive into a bowl of vibrant veggies and fluffy rice? Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This rice and mixed veggies recipe is a perfect blend of convenience, nutrition, and taste. Here’s why it stands out:

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy days.
• Nutritious: Packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals from fresh vegetables.
• Customizable: Use whatever veggies you have on hand or prefer.
• Vegetarian and Vegan Friendly: A wholesome plant-based meal option.
• Budget-Friendly: Affordable ingredients that don’t skimp on flavor.

Plus, this dish pairs beautifully with many other recipes — for instance, if you love vegetarian meals, check out the A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion for more inspiration!

Ingredients

• 1 cup long-grain white rice (or brown rice for a healthier option)
• 2 cups water or vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup carrots, diced
• 1 cup bell peppers, diced (mix of red, yellow, and green)
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1/2 cup frozen peas
• 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)

Equipment

• Medium saucepan with lid
• Large skillet or wok
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Colander or strainer (if rinsing rice)

Instructions

1. Rinse the rice: Place the rice in a colander and rinse under cold running water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming sticky.
2. Cook the rice: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice and 2 cups of water or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes (or according to package instructions). Once cooked, remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
3. Sauté the aromatics: While the rice is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
4. Add garlic and vegetables: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Then add the carrots, bell peppers, and broccoli florets. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
5. Mix in peas and corn: Add the frozen peas and corn kernels to the skillet, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
6. Combine rice and veggies: Add the cooked rice to the skillet with the vegetables. Stir well to combine everything evenly.
7. Season the dish: Add soy sauce if using, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir thoroughly and cook for another 2 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
8. Garnish and serve: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired. Serve warm as a main dish or side.

Tips & Variations

“For a more protein-packed meal, toss in some cooked chickpeas or tofu cubes along with the veggies.”

• Use Brown Rice: Substitute white rice with brown rice for added fiber and a nuttier flavor. Cooking time will increase slightly.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of chilli powder or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Change Up the Veggies: Feel free to add zucchini, mushrooms, snap peas, or any seasonal vegetables you have.
• Make It Asian-Inspired: Use sesame oil instead of olive oil, add grated ginger in step 4, and finish with a drizzle of soy sauce and sesame seeds.
• Go Mediterranean: Add sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This rice and mixed veggies dish is incredibly versatile. Serve it as a standalone meal for a light lunch or dinner, or pair it with your favorite protein like grilled tofu, tempeh, or beans for extra sustenance.

It also works well as a side dish alongside other vegetarian recipes such as the Vegan Chipotle Bowl Recipe for a Flavorful Healthy Meal or the Cheap Vegetarian Recipes For Families Everyone Will Love.

For a complete meal, consider adding a fresh salad or a warm bowl of soup like the Vegan Fall Soup Recipes To Warm Your Cozy Evenings. The combination creates a balanced and nourishing feast.

Conclusion

Rice and mixed veggies is a timeless recipe that perfectly balances simplicity, health, and flavor. It’s ideal for anyone seeking a wholesome, quick, and adaptable meal that can be tailored to personal tastes and dietary preferences.

With just a handful of fresh ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a satisfying dish that nourishes your body and comforts your soul. The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility—whether you’re a vegetarian, vegan, or just looking to add more veggies to your diet, this meal fits the bill.

Don’t forget to experiment with different vegetables and seasonings to keep things exciting. And if you want to explore more delicious vegetarian meals, be sure to visit our page on Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals.

Happy cooking!

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