Baked Savoury Vegetable Rice Recipe for Easy Meals

Looking for a wholesome and comforting meal that’s both delicious and packed with nutrients? This baked savoury vegetable rice recipe is exactly what you need!

Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prepping, it combines fragrant rice with a medley of fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs, all baked to perfection. It’s a one-dish wonder that brings out rich flavors and satisfying textures, making it a fantastic option for vegetarians and anyone wanting to enjoy a hearty, healthy dish.

Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting to explore vegetable-forward meals, this recipe is easy to customize with your favorite veggies and spices. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover vegetables in your fridge.

The magic of baking allows the flavors to meld beautifully while giving the rice a slightly crispy top layer that everyone loves. Ready to dive into a vibrant, nourishing meal?

Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This baked savoury vegetable rice recipe is a true crowd-pleaser for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly versatile.

You can swap in whatever vegetables you have on hand, making it an excellent recipe for reducing food waste. It’s also naturally vegetarian and can be made vegan by choosing vegetable broth.

The baking process allows the rice to cook evenly while infusing it with the wonderful flavors of garlic, herbs, and spices. The result is a fluffy, flavorful dish with a delightful crust on top.

It’s also a fantastic make-ahead meal, perfect for busy days when you want a fuss-free dinner. Finally, it’s nutritionally balanced—packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals from the vegetables, and energy-sustaining carbohydrates from the rice.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice, rinsed
• 3 cups vegetable broth (low sodium preferred)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup diced carrots
• 1 cup diced bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
• 1 cup chopped zucchini
• 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped for garnish

Equipment

• Large oven-safe baking dish (about 9×13 inches)
• Medium saucepan
• Knife and chopping board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing bowl
• Aluminum foil
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease your baking dish with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the vegetables: Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic. Dice the carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini into uniform pieces for even cooking.
3. Sauté the aromatics: In a medium saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking for 3-4 minutes until soft and fragrant but not browned.
4. Add the vegetables: Stir in the carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini. Cook for another 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
5. Combine rice and broth: Add the rinsed rice to the pan, stirring well to coat it with the oil and vegetables. Then, pour in the vegetable broth and add thyme, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together.
6. Transfer to the baking dish: Pour the rice and vegetable mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
7. Cover and bake: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes.
8. Add peas: After 35 minutes, remove the foil carefully, stir in the thawed peas, and return the dish to the oven uncovered. Bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the top is slightly golden.
9. Rest and garnish: Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or cilantro on top for a fresh, vibrant finish.

Tips & Variations

Pro tip: For an extra flavor boost, sauté the vegetables with a splash of soy sauce or add a teaspoon of homemade chilli powder blend to the rice mixture before baking.

You can easily customize this recipe based on your preferences or what’s available in your kitchen. Try adding mushrooms, corn, or chopped spinach for different textures and flavors.

If you want it to be heartier, toss in some cooked chickpeas or lentils.

For a nuttier flavor, substitute white rice with brown rice or even try ancient grains like quinoa or farro (see Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals for ideas). Just keep in mind that cooking times and liquid amounts might vary slightly.

If you prefer a cheesy twist, sprinkle some vegan cheese on top during the last 10 minutes of baking, or serve with a side of Cauliflower Vegan Cheese Sauce for dipping.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This baked savoury vegetable rice is delicious on its own but also pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Serve it alongside a crisp green salad or a tangy cucumber yogurt dip for a refreshing contrast.

It also complements grilled or roasted vegetables and plant-based protein options, like tofu or tempeh.

For a festive meal, garnish with toasted nuts or seeds such as slivered almonds or pumpkin seeds to add crunch. Leftovers reheat beautifully, making this recipe ideal for busy weeknights or packed lunches.

Conclusion

This baked savoury vegetable rice dish is a versatile and comforting addition to any home-cooked meal repertoire. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, it offers a satisfying balance of flavors and nutrition that everyone will enjoy.

Its adaptability means you can tailor it to seasonal vegetables or pantry staples, ensuring you always have a reliable recipe on hand.

Perfect for both family dinners and batch cooking, this recipe not only nourishes the body but delights the palate. For more inspiring vegetarian recipes, be sure to explore our A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion.

Happy cooking!

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