Veggie Rice Pilaf Recipe for Easy and Flavorful Meals

Rice pilaf is a timeless dish that brings a comforting and flavorful touch to any meal. Packed with colorful vegetables and aromatic spices, this veggie rice pilaf recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a wholesome, plant-based side or main dish.

Whether you’re cooking for family, entertaining guests, or simply craving a nourishing dish, this pilaf offers a balance of textures and tastes that will leave everyone asking for seconds. The fluffy rice combined with tender, sautéed vegetables creates a harmony of flavors that’s both satisfying and wholesome.

Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make and versatile enough to customize with your favorite veggies or spices. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with this vibrant and nutritious veggie rice pilaf!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This veggie rice pilaf is not only delicious but also nutritious and easy to prepare. It uses everyday ingredients to create a dish that’s bursting with flavor and color.

The pilaf is perfect for vegetarians and anyone looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into their diet.

The recipe is highly adaptable—you can swap vegetables based on what’s in season or what you have on hand. It’s also a great way to use up leftover veggies.

Cooking the rice with broth and sautéed aromatics gives it a rich, savory depth that plain rice often lacks.

Whether you want a quick side dish or a hearty meal on its own, this pilaf fits the bill. It pairs wonderfully with various dishes and is sure to become a staple in your cooking repertoire.

Ingredients

• 1 cup long-grain white rice (or basmati for extra fragrance)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium carrot, diced
• 1/2 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
• 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced (any color)
• 1/2 cup mushrooms, sliced (optional)
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1/4 cup slivered almonds (optional for crunch)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped for garnish

Equipment

• Medium saucepan with lid
• Medium skillet or sauté pan
• Cutting board and knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Fine mesh strainer (for rinsing rice)

Instructions

1. Rinse the rice: Place the rice in a fine mesh strainer and rinse under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming sticky.
2. Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 3 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the vegetables: Toss in the diced carrot, bell pepper, mushrooms (if using), and green peas. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender but still vibrant.
4. Toast the rice: Add the rinsed rice to the skillet with the vegetables and stir well to coat the grains with oil and veggies. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, to lightly toast the rice.
5. Spice it up: Sprinkle in the ground cumin, turmeric powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly to combine all flavors.
6. Cook the rice: Transfer the rice and vegetable mixture to a medium saucepan. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil over high heat.
7. Simmer: Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and let simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and all liquid is absorbed.
8. Rest the pilaf: Remove the pan from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. This step helps the rice fluff up perfectly.
9. Add almonds and fluff: Stir in the slivered almonds, if using, and fluff the rice gently with a fork to separate the grains and evenly distribute the veggies.
10. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or cilantro on top before serving to add a fresh, herbal note.

Tips & Variations

For a nuttier flavor, try substituting basmati rice with brown rice or quinoa, but remember to adjust cooking times accordingly.

You can easily swap or add vegetables based on preference. Zucchini, corn, or chopped spinach work great in this pilaf.

For extra protein, toss in some cooked chickpeas or tofu cubes.

If you like your pilaf with a bit more spice, add a pinch of red chili flakes or a dash of your favorite spice blend like Chilli Powder Recipe Vegan: Easy Homemade Spice Blend. This adds a warm kick without overpowering the other flavors.

To make this pilaf completely oil-free, you can sauté the vegetables in a splash of vegetable broth instead of olive oil.

Nutrition Facts

Note: Nutrition values may vary depending on exact ingredients and portion sizes.

Serving Suggestions

This veggie rice pilaf pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Serve it alongside grilled vegetables, roasted tofu, or your favorite plant-based protein for a complete meal.

It also works well as a base for bowls topped with avocado, beans, and a drizzle of tahini sauce.

For a festive touch, accompany the pilaf with warm flatbreads or a crisp green salad. Leftovers can be transformed into delicious stuffed peppers or even fried rice the next day.

If you’re interested in expanding your vegetarian meal ideas, check out our collection of A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion or explore Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals for more wholesome inspiration.

Conclusion

This veggie rice pilaf recipe is a wonderful addition to your culinary repertoire, offering a delicious and healthy way to enjoy rice and vegetables together. Its simplicity and flexibility make it perfect for busy weeknights, yet flavorful enough to impress guests.

The combination of aromatic spices, fresh veggies, and fluffy rice creates a comforting dish that can stand on its own or complement a wide range of meals.

Whether you’re new to vegetarian cooking or a seasoned pro, this pilaf is sure to satisfy your taste buds and nourish your body. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different vegetables and spices to make it truly your own.

For more tasty and wholesome vegetarian recipes, visit our collection on Best Vegetarian Recipes No Dairy for Delicious Meals. Enjoy cooking and happy eating!

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