Baked Brown Rice and Vegetables Recipes for Easy Meals

Baked brown rice and vegetables is a wholesome, comforting dish that combines the nutty flavor of brown rice with the vibrant textures and colors of fresh vegetables. Perfect for a nutritious weeknight dinner or meal prep, this recipe is both filling and packed with essential vitamins and minerals.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and versatility — you can customize it with your favorite seasonal veggies, herbs, and spices. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, baking the rice and vegetables together allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a deliciously satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and clean up after.

In this blog post, I’ll walk you through a detailed recipe for baked brown rice with vegetables that’s perfect for anyone looking to eat healthy without sacrificing flavor. Plus, I’ll share some tips, variations, and serving suggestions to inspire your next kitchen adventure.

If you love wholesome vegetarian meals, you might also enjoy A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion or Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This baked brown rice and vegetables recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a nutrient-dense meal that’s both hearty and flavorful. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with it:

• Simple preparation: Toss all the ingredients in a baking dish and let your oven do the work.
• Nutritious: Brown rice offers fiber and complex carbs, while the vegetables provide vitamins, antioxidants, and minerals.
• Customizable: Use any vegetables you have on hand, from bell peppers to zucchini or carrots.
• One-dish meal: Minimal cleanup and perfect for meal prepping lunches or dinners.
• Great for all diets: Vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and dairy-free friendly.

Ingredients

• 1 cup brown rice (uncooked, rinsed)
• 2 ½ cups vegetable broth (or water for cooking rice)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 medium zucchini, diced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 medium carrot, peeled and sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Equipment

• Large oven-safe baking dish (about 9×13 inches)
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Wooden spoon or spatula for mixing
• Aluminum foil (optional, for covering)

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 rice: Rinse 1 cup of brown rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents clumping.
3. Chop the vegetables: Dice the onion, bell pepper, and zucchini. Slice the carrot, halve the cherry tomatoes, and prepare broccoli florets.
4. Mix ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the rinsed brown rice, diced onion, garlic, bell pepper, zucchini, broccoli, carrot, and cherry tomatoes.
5. Add seasonings: Drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the mixture. Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to taste. Toss everything gently to coat the rice and vegetables evenly.
6. Transfer to baking dish: Pour the rice and vegetable mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
7. Add liquid: Pour in 2 ½ cups of vegetable broth (or water) to cover the rice and veggies. Do not stir after adding the liquid.
8. Cover and bake: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 1 hour, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
9. Check and uncover: After 1 hour, carefully remove the foil and stir the mixture gently. If there is still liquid remaining, return to the oven uncovered for another 10-15 minutes to evaporate excess moisture.
10. Final touches: Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork. Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
11. Serve warm: Scoop portions onto plates and enjoy your hearty baked brown rice and vegetables!

Tips & Variations

“For a nuttier flavor, toast the brown rice in a dry pan for a few minutes before mixing with vegetables.”

• Vegetable swaps: Feel free to substitute or add mushrooms, spinach, kale, peas, or corn depending on what’s in season or your preference.
• Add protein: For extra protein, add cooked chickpeas, black beans, or crumbled tofu before baking.
• Spice it up: Incorporate spices like cumin, coriander, or a pinch of chili powder for a smoky, spicy kick. See our Chilli Powder Recipe Vegan: Easy Homemade Spice Blend for inspiration.
• Cheesy touch: Top with vegan cheese or nutritional yeast before baking for a cheesy, savory flavor similar to a casserole.
• Make it gluten-free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but always check your broth to be sure.
• Meal prep: This dish keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days and freezes perfectly for up to 3 months.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This baked brown rice and vegetable dish is a versatile base that pairs well with many sides and toppings. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal:

• Serve with a fresh green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for a light, refreshing contrast.
• Add a dollop of hummus or guacamole for creamy richness and extra flavor.
• Top with roasted nuts or seeds like toasted almonds or pumpkin seeds for crunch.
• Pair with warm flatbread or whole-grain rolls for a complete meal.
• For a Mediterranean twist, add olives and a drizzle of tahini sauce.

If you enjoy easy plant-based bowls, you might also like this Vegan Chipotle Bowl Recipe for a Flavorful Healthy Meal.

Conclusion

Baked brown rice and vegetables is a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy, satisfying meal that requires minimal hands-on time. The combination of hearty brown rice and colorful veggies delivers a balanced plate full of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.

Plus, the oven does most of the work, making this dish perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping ahead. By customizing the vegetables and seasonings, you can create countless variations to suit your taste buds and dietary needs.

Whether you’re new to vegetarian cooking or a seasoned plant-based foodie, this recipe offers a wonderful base that’s both delicious and nourishing. For more inspiration on wholesome vegetarian meals, be sure to explore our other recipes like Best Vegetarian Recipes No Dairy for Delicious Meals and Cheap Vegetarian Recipes For Families Everyone Will Love.

Happy cooking and enjoy every bite!

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