Brown Rice and Veggie Bowl Recipe for Healthy Meals

Looking for a wholesome meal that’s both nourishing and bursting with vibrant flavors? This brown rice and veggie bowl recipe is exactly what you need!

Perfect for lunch or dinner, it combines the nutty goodness of brown rice with a colorful medley of fresh, sautéed vegetables. Whether you’re a busy professional, a health-conscious foodie, or simply someone who loves easy-to-make meals, this bowl provides a balanced, satisfying dish that’s easy to customize.

Plus, it’s packed with fiber, vitamins, and plant-based protein to keep you energized throughout the day.

This recipe is incredibly versatile—swap in your favorite veggies or add a zesty sauce to make it your own. It’s also a fantastic way to use up leftover produce and reduce food waste.

Ready to dive into a bowl full of delicious nutrients and tasty textures? Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This brown rice and veggie bowl is a true champion of healthy eating made simple. Here’s why it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen:

• Wholesome and nutrient-dense: Brown rice provides complex carbs and fiber, while the veggies add antioxidants and essential vitamins.
• Quick and easy to prepare: With simple sautéing and boiling steps, you’ll have a nourishing meal ready in under 40 minutes.
• Customizable: Use any seasonal vegetables or your favorite spices to make it uniquely yours.
• Plant-based and vegan-friendly: Perfect for anyone following a vegetarian or vegan diet.
• Great for meal prep: This bowl keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days, making lunches and dinners a breeze.

Ingredients

• 1 cup brown rice, rinsed
• 2 1/2 cups water or vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
• 1 medium zucchini, diced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 medium carrot, peeled and sliced
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
• Optional toppings: avocado slices, toasted pumpkin seeds, or a drizzle of tahini sauce

Equipment

• Medium saucepan with lid (for cooking rice)
• Large skillet or frying pan
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Serving bowls

Instructions

1. Cook the brown rice: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed brown rice and water or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer and cover with a lid. Cook for about 35-40 minutes, or until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
2. Prepare the vegetables: While the rice is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sliced red onion, sautéing until fragrant and translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the veggies: Stir in the diced red bell pepper, zucchini, broccoli florets, and sliced carrot. Sauté for about 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
4. Season the veggies: Sprinkle the smoked paprika, ground cumin, salt, and pepper over the vegetables. Mix well to coat evenly and cook for another 1-2 minutes to develop the flavors.
5. Combine rice and veggies: Add the cooked brown rice to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Stir gently to combine everything thoroughly and heat through for 2-3 minutes.
6. Finish with lemon juice: Remove the skillet from heat and drizzle fresh lemon juice over the rice and vegetable mixture. Toss lightly to brighten the flavors.
7. Serve and garnish: Spoon the brown rice and veggie mixture into serving bowls. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro, and add any optional toppings like avocado slices or toasted pumpkin seeds for extra texture and nutrition.

Tips & Variations

Tip: For an even quicker meal, use pre-cooked or leftover brown rice. Just reheat it with the sautéed veggies and seasonings.

Feel free to swap out vegetables depending on what’s in season or what you have on hand. Sweet potatoes, kale, mushrooms, or snap peas all work beautifully in this bowl.

You can also experiment with different spices—try adding a pinch of chili powder from this Chilli Powder Recipe Vegan: Easy Homemade Spice Blend to give the dish a smoky heat.

If you want to add some plant-based protein, consider tossing in cooked chickpeas or black beans. For those who enjoy a creamier texture, a drizzle of tahini or your favorite vegan dressing can elevate the dish even further.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This brown rice and veggie bowl is delicious on its own but also pairs wonderfully with a few complementary sides. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside some warm, crusty whole-grain bread or a fresh green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette.

Looking to add more plant-based meals to your routine? Check out our A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion for inspiration.

Or explore our Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals to discover more ways to enjoy wholesome grains like quinoa and farro.

Conclusion

This brown rice and veggie bowl recipe is a fantastic way to nourish your body with wholesome ingredients while enjoying a flavorful, satisfying meal. Its simplicity and versatility make it perfect for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or whenever you crave something healthy and tasty.

The combination of chewy brown rice and crisp-tender vegetables offers a delightful texture contrast that keeps every bite interesting.

By customizing the veggies and seasonings, you can tailor this bowl to your unique taste preferences, ensuring it never gets boring. Plus, it’s an excellent way to eat more plants and whole grains without spending hours in the kitchen.

If you enjoyed this recipe, you might also love our Vegan Chipotle Bowl Recipe for a Flavorful Healthy Meal—another tasty, plant-packed bowl perfect for any occasion.

Enjoy your cooking adventure and happy eating!

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