Rice and Mixed Vegetable Recipe for Easy Healthy Meals

Rice and mixed vegetables come together to create one of the most comforting and versatile dishes you can make at home. Whether you’re a busy professional, a student, or simply someone who loves a wholesome meal, this recipe offers a perfect balance of nutrition, flavor, and ease of preparation.

The vibrant colors and textures of fresh vegetables combined with fluffy, fragrant rice make this dish both visually appealing and satisfying. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up any veggies you have in your fridge, reducing waste and saving money.

This recipe is suitable for all skill levels and can easily be customized to your taste preferences or dietary needs. It’s a perfect weekday dinner or a side dish that complements a variety of cuisines.

In this post, you’ll learn how to make a simple yet delicious rice and mixed vegetable dish that will soon become a staple in your kitchen. Stay tuned for tips, variations, and serving suggestions that will elevate this humble meal to something truly special!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This rice and mixed vegetable recipe is a fantastic blend of convenience and nutrition. It’s a one-pot wonder that’s easy to prepare, making it ideal for those hectic days when time is short but you still want a wholesome meal.

The dish is naturally gluten-free, vegan, and packed with vitamins and fiber from the colorful vegetables. It also acts as a blank canvas—perfect for experimenting with different spices, herbs, and add-ins based on what you have available.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, this recipe is adaptable and crowd-pleasing. It’s healthy, filling, and can be served as a main or as a side dish, pairing beautifully with everything from curries to grilled proteins.

Plus, it reheats well, making it a great option for meal prep and leftovers.

Ingredients

• 1 cup basmati rice (or any long-grain rice)
• 2 cups water or vegetable broth for more flavor
• 1 cup carrots, diced
• 1 cup green beans, chopped
• 1 cup bell peppers, diced (use a mix of colors)
• 1/2 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or any neutral cooking oil
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala (optional for warmth)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)

Equipment

• Medium saucepan with lid
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Colander or sieve (for rinsing rice)
• Optional: rice cooker or Instant Pot for convenience

Instructions

1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming sticky.
2. Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and let them sizzle for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent and soft. Stir occasionally to avoid burning.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent the garlic from burning.
5. Stir in the diced carrots, green beans, and bell peppers. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables start to soften.
6. Add the peas, turmeric powder, garam masala (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat the vegetables with the spices.
7. Add the rinsed rice to the pan and stir gently to mix with the vegetables and spices.
8. Pour in the water or vegetable broth, and bring the mixture to a boil.
9. Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a lid, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and all liquid is absorbed. Avoid lifting the lid too often to trap the steam.
10. Once cooked, remove from heat and let it rest, covered, for 5 minutes. This helps the rice grains firm up and separate.
11. Fluff the rice gently with a fork, then stir in the lemon juice and garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley.
12. Serve warm as a main dish or side.

Tips & Variations

“To make this dish even more nutritious, try adding cooked chickpeas or tofu for extra protein.”

• Use different vegetables: Swap in zucchini, corn, mushrooms, or spinach based on season or preference.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red chili flakes or explore using the Chilli Powder Recipe Vegan: Easy Homemade Spice Blend for a flavorful kick.
• For a nuttier flavor: Toast the rice lightly in the oil before adding water.
• Make it a pilaf: Add slivered almonds or raisins for a sweet-savory combination.
• Use brown rice or ancient grains: For a healthier twist, try this recipe with brown rice or millet, adjusting cooking time accordingly. Check out our Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals for more ideas.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This rice and mixed vegetable dish is delicious on its own but can also be paired with a variety of sides and mains to create a full meal experience. Consider serving it alongside a fresh cucumber salad or a tangy yogurt raita to add creaminess and a cooling contrast.

For a heartier meal, pair it with grilled tofu, roasted chickpeas, or a flavorful curry. It also complements dishes like Bamia Recipe Palestinian Vegetarian Style Made Easy or a simple dal.

If you want to add more texture, sprinkle toasted nuts or seeds on top before serving. Leftovers can be transformed into stuffed peppers or fried rice for a quick next-day meal.

Conclusion

This rice and mixed vegetable recipe is more than just a side dish—it’s a wholesome, flexible meal that fits perfectly into any lifestyle. Its simplicity makes it accessible for cooks of all levels, while its adaptability means you can tailor it to your tastes and pantry.

The combination of fluffy rice and vibrant vegetables provides a satisfying and nutritious plate that fuels your body and delights your palate.

Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a base recipe to build upon, this dish hits all the marks. Be sure to explore more delicious and healthy vegetarian options like those found in our A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion collection to keep your meals exciting and nutritious.

Happy cooking!

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