Nutritious White Rice and Mixed Veggies

Creating a simple yet delicious meal that fits your dietary preferences doesn't have to be complicated. This gluten-free, vegetarian, and low-fat recipe for white rice with mixed vegetables will have you savoring every bite.

Ingredients

• 1 cup basmati rice (or your preferred type of white rice)
• 2 cups water or vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon cooking oil (vegetable, olive, or avocado oil)
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn, and green beans)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried herbs (such as thyme or basil) or 1 teaspoon fresh herbs (such as parsley or cilantro)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional for added flavor)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

• Chop your vegetables into small, bite-sized pieces. If you're using frozen mixed vegetables, you can use them directly without thawing.

Step 2: Cook the Rice

1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
2. In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water or vegetable broth to a boil.
3. Add the rinsed rice to the boiling liquid. Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

1. While the rice cooks, heat cooking oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender.

Step 4: Combine Rice and Vegetables

1. Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork to separate the grains.
2. Add the sautéed vegetables to the rice and gently mix to combine.
3. Season the dish with salt, black pepper, and herbs. Add soy sauce if desired for extra flavor.

Step 5: Serve

• Transfer the prepared rice and vegetables to a serving dish.
• Garnish with additional fresh herbs for an extra burst of flavor.

Tips

• Customize Your Dish: Use any vegetables on hand and adjust seasoning to suit your taste.
• Add Protein: Enhance your meal's nutritional value by adding tofu, beans, or cooked chicken.
• Herbs and Spices: Experiment with different herbs like cilantro, parsley, basil, or spices like cumin to enhance the dish's flavor.

Enjoy your flavorful and nutritious white rice with vegetables, perfect for any meal!

FAQs

What type of rice is best for this recipe?

While this recipe uses basmati rice, you can substitute it with any variety of white rice, such as jasmine or long-grain rice, depending on your preference.

Can I use frozen mixed vegetables?

Yes, frozen mixed vegetables work perfectly for this recipe. There's no need to thaw them; simply add them directly to the skillet during the sauté step.

How can I make this dish more filling?

To make this dish more filling, consider adding a source of protein such as tofu, chickpeas, or cooked chicken. This will enhance the meal's nutritional profile.

Can I meal prep this dish?

Absolutely! This recipe can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop when you're ready to serve.

How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftover rice and veggies in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be kept fresh for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions and reheating them when needed.

Photo by Cats Coming: https://www.pexels.com/photo/cooked-rice-and-curry-food-served-on-white-plate-674574/