White Rice With Veggies Recipe for a Healthy Meal

White rice with veggies is a timeless classic that brings warmth, comfort, and nutrition together in one bowl. Whether you’re craving a quick weekday dinner or a wholesome meal to share with family, this dish fits the bill perfectly.

The fluffy, tender white rice pairs beautifully with vibrant, sautéed vegetables, offering a satisfying texture and delightful burst of flavors. What makes this recipe truly special is its versatility – you can customize it with your favorite veggies and seasonings to suit your taste buds or dietary needs.

In this blog post, you’ll find a detailed, easy-to-follow recipe that anyone can master, even beginners. Plus, you’ll discover helpful tips and variations to keep this dish exciting every time you cook it.

So, grab your apron and get ready for a tasty journey toward a simple yet nourishing meal that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This white rice with veggies recipe is a perfect combination of simplicity, nutrition, and flavor. It’s:

• Quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Highly versatile, allowing you to swap vegetables or spices based on what you have on hand.
• Nutritious, packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals from fresh vegetables.
• Comforting and filling, yet light enough not to leave you feeling sluggish.
• Great for meal prepping – it reheats well and can be paired with various proteins or sauces.

Plus, it’s a fantastic way to introduce more plant-based meals into your diet without sacrificing taste or satisfaction.

Ingredients

• 1 cup white rice (long grain or jasmine rice works best)
• 2 cups water or vegetable broth for cooking rice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or your preferred cooking oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium carrot, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup frozen peas or fresh if available
• 1 cup broccoli florets, chopped into bite-sized pieces
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce or tamari for a gluten-free option
• Optional: 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes for a little heat
• Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish

Equipment

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

Instructions

1. Rinse the rice: Place the rice in a fine-mesh sieve and rinse under cold running water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and helps the rice cook fluffy.
2. Cook the rice: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice and 2 cups of water (or vegetable broth for more flavor). Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the water is absorbed.
3. Let rice rest: Remove the saucepan from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5-10 minutes. Fluff the rice gently with a fork.
4. Prepare the veggies: While the rice cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3 minutes until translucent.
5. Add garlic and carrots: Stir in the minced garlic and diced carrots. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until carrots start to soften.
6. Add bell pepper and broccoli: Toss in the red bell pepper and broccoli florets. Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are tender but still crisp.
7. Stir in peas and season: Add the peas, soy sauce, salt, pepper, and optional chili flakes. Cook for 2 more minutes until peas are heated through and flavors meld.
8. Combine rice and veggies: Add the cooked rice to the skillet with vegetables. Gently fold everything together to combine and heat through for 2 minutes.
9. Garnish and serve: Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro, and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

“To make your white rice with veggies even more flavorful, try cooking the rice in vegetable broth instead of water. Adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds just before serving can elevate this simple dish to the next level.”

• Swap vegetables: Use zucchini, spinach, green beans, or corn instead of or alongside the listed veggies.
• Add protein: Stir in cooked chickpeas, tofu cubes, or edamame for a heartier meal.
• Make it spicy: Include fresh diced jalapeños or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
• Use different rice: Brown rice, basmati, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
• For extra flavor: Add a teaspoon of grated ginger or a splash of sesame oil during the veggie sauté.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This white rice with veggies dish is wonderfully flexible when it comes to serving options. Here are some ideas to make your meal complete:

• Serve as a side dish alongside your favorite grilled or roasted protein.
• Top with a drizzle of tahini or a spoonful of hummus for a Middle Eastern twist.
• Pair with a fresh green salad for a light and refreshing meal.
• Try wrapping it up in a warm tortilla with some avocado and salsa for a delicious veggie burrito.
• For a touch of Asian flair, add a splash of soy sauce and sprinkle with chopped scallions and toasted sesame seeds.

If you love this recipe and want to explore more wholesome plant-based dishes, check out our A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion as well as the nutritious Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals.

Conclusion

White rice with veggies is a delightful, nourishing dish that’s as adaptable as it is delicious. Its simplicity makes it a perfect canvas for a variety of flavors and ingredients, so you can make it your own every time you cook.

Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned chef looking for a quick, wholesome meal, this recipe delivers on taste, nutrition, and ease.

By using fresh vegetables and quality seasonings, you create a dish that not only satisfies your hunger but also supports a balanced, healthy lifestyle. Don’t forget to try the tips and variations we shared to keep things exciting and fresh.

For more flavorful recipes and culinary inspiration, be sure to explore other great options like our Chilli Powder Recipe Vegan: Easy Homemade Spice Blend for adding a spicy kick to your meals.

Happy cooking and enjoy your vibrant, tasty white rice with veggies!

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