Are you looking for a flavorful and nutritious meal that’s easy to prepare? Look no further! This collection of 20 healthy rice recipes has got you covered. From classic brown rice dishes to international-inspired quinoa bowls, we’ve gathered the best of the best to add some excitement to your meals.
Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting like a warm bowl of broccoli and cheese casserole or something light and refreshing like a Mediterranean stuffed bell pepper, there’s something on this list for everyone. And the best part? Each dish is packed with nutrients and flavor, so you can feel good about what you’re putting in your body.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world, exploring different cuisines and cooking techniques to bring you the most delicious and healthy rice recipes out there. So sit back, get cozy, and let’s dive in!
Quinoa and Brown Rice Buddha Bowl
Nourish your body and soul with this flavorful and nutritious bowl filled with quinoa, brown rice, roasted vegetables, and a tangy tahini dressing. This satisfying meal is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 cup cooked brown rice
– 2 cups mixed roasted vegetables (such as broccoli, carrots, bell peppers)
– 1/4 cup tahini dressing (see below)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sesame seeds, chopped scallions, or diced avocado for garnish
Tahini Dressing:
– 2 tablespoons tahini
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa and brown rice according to package instructions.
2. Toss mixed vegetables with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together tahini dressing ingredients.
4. Assemble Buddha bowls by dividing cooked quinoa and brown rice between two bowls. Top with roasted vegetables and drizzle with tahini dressing.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with optional toppings if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turmeric Coconut Rice with Vegetables
This flavorful side dish combines the warmth of turmeric with the creaminess of coconut milk and the crunch of roasted vegetables, making it a perfect accompaniment to your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– Salt, to taste
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 small zucchini, chopped
– 1 small yellow squash, chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine rice and water. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together coconut milk, butter, turmeric, and salt. Pour the mixture over the cooked rice and stir to combine.
4. On a baking sheet, toss bell pepper, zucchini, and squash with a pinch of salt. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
5. Serve the Turmeric Coconut Rice with roasted vegetables alongside your favorite dish.
Cooking Time: Approximately 40-45 minutes
Lemon Garlic Herb Rice with Chickpeas
A flavorful and nutritious side dish that combines the brightness of lemon, the pungency of garlic, and the earthiness of herbs with tender chickpeas. Perfect for accompanying your favorite grilled meats or as a standalone meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp freshly chopped parsley
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/4 cup chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute or until fragrant.
3. Stir in parsley, thyme, and chickpeas. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Fluff cooked rice with a fork and stir in lemon juice, salt, and pepper to combine.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Cauliflower Fried Rice
This Spicy Cauliflower Fried Rice recipe is a creative twist on the classic Chinese dish, adding a nutritious and flavorful punch from roasted cauliflower and spicy kick from sriracha sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss cauliflower florets with 1 tablespoon oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
2. Heat remaining 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add minced garlic and grated ginger; cook for an additional minute.
5. Stir in cooked rice, roasted cauliflower, soy sauce, and sriracha sauce. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Mediterranean Stuffed Bell Peppers with Rice
Elevate your mealtime with this flavorful and nutritious recipe, featuring tender bell peppers filled with a savory rice mixture infused with Mediterranean spices and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, parsley, mint, feta cheese (if using), olive oil, onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the rice mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place stuffed peppers in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Black Bean and Rice Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful Black Bean and Rice Stuffed Sweet Potatoes recipe! This nutritious dish combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the savory goodness of black beans, rice, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 4 large sweet potatoes
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheese, sour cream, or salsa for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pierce sweet potatoes with a fork several times and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. While sweet potatoes are baking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Stir in black beans, cumin, salt, and pepper.
5. Once sweet potatoes are done, let them cool for 5-10 minutes. Slice in half lengthwise and scoop out some of the flesh to make room for filling.
6. Divide cooked rice mixture among sweet potato halves, filling each with about 1/4 cup.
7. Serve hot, topped with optional cheese, sour cream, or salsa.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Vegetable Stir-Fry with Brown Rice
This quick and flavorful recipe combines a variety of colorful vegetables with nutty brown rice, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option. In just 20 minutes, you can have a delicious and nutritious meal on the table.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook brown rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add sliced onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
4. Add red bell pepper and carrot; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Add broccoli florets and soy sauce; stir-fry until vegetables are tender-crisp, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Serve cooked brown rice alongside the vegetable stir-fry.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Jasmine Rice with Mango and Avocado
This recipe combines the fluffy goodness of jasmine rice with the natural sweetness of mango and creaminess of avocado, creating a unique and delicious side dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked jasmine rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the jasmine rice and cook according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced mango and avocado. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the fruit is tender and lightly caramelized.
3. Fluff the cooked jasmine rice with a fork. Stir in the mango-avocado mixture.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Wild Rice Salad with Cranberries and Almonds
This refreshing salad combines the nutty flavor of wild rice with the sweetness of cranberries and crunch of almonds, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked wild rice
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/4 cup chopped almonds
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked wild rice, cranberries, and chopped almonds.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and apple cider vinegar.
3. Pour the dressing over the rice mixture and toss until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Garlic Butter Mushroom Rice
Elevate your meal with this rich and aromatic side dish that combines the savory flavors of garlic, butter, and mushrooms with fluffy rice. This recipe is perfect for accompanying grilled meats or as a comforting base for a hearty bowl.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
• 2 cups water
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in remaining 2 tablespoons of butter until melted.
5. Combine cooked rice with mushroom mixture and season with salt, pepper, and parsley.
6. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mexican Cilantro Lime Rice
Mexican Cilantro Lime Rice Recipe
A flavorful and aromatic side dish that pairs perfectly with grilled meats, vegetables, or as a base for burritos and bowls.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
4. Add the rice to the saucepan and stir to coat with oil and mix with the onion mixture. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Add the water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
6. Fluff the rice with a fork and stir in the chopped cilantro and lime juice. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spinach and Feta Stuffed Tomatoes with Rice
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed tomatoes, this recipe combines the sweetness of fresh tomatoes with the savory flavors of spinach and feta cheese, served over a bed of fluffy rice.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tomatoes
– 1/2 cup cooked white rice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh spinach
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the tomatoes and scoop out the insides.
3. In a bowl, combine cooked rice, chopped spinach, crumbled feta cheese, and minced garlic.
4. Stuff each tomato with the rice mixture, dividing it evenly among the four tomatoes.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the tomatoes and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the stuffed tomatoes in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the tomatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Teriyaki Tofu Rice Bowl
This Japanese-inspired dish is a simple yet flavorful meal that combines tender tofu, savory teriyaki sauce, and fluffy rice. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunch, this recipe is easy to make and packed with protein.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 cups cooked Japanese short-grain rice (or regular white rice)
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sliced green onions, toasted sesame seeds, and pickled ginger for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, and grated ginger.
3. Add the tofu cubes to the marinade and let it sit for at least 10 minutes.
4. Heat a non-stick pan or wok over medium-high heat. Remove the tofu from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Cook the tofu for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
6. Serve the tofu over cooked rice and garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, and pickled ginger if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Curried Rice with Peas and Carrots
This recipe combines the warmth of curry powder with the sweetness of peas and carrots, all wrapped up in a fluffy bed of rice. Perfect as a side dish or as a base for your favorite stir-fry.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer until the water runs clear.
2. Heat the oil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the curry powder and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
4. Add the rice and stir to coat with the curry mixture. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Add the water to the saucepan and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid has been absorbed and the rice is tender.
7. Fluff the rice with a fork and stir in the frozen peas and carrots. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Broccoli and Cheese Brown Rice Casserole
A creamy and flavorful casserole that combines the goodness of broccoli, cheese, and brown rice. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked brown rice
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked brown rice, broccoli florets, shredded cheddar cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese.
3. In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add milk and stir until smooth.
4. Pour the milk mixture over the rice mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pineapple Fried Rice with Shrimp
Pineapple Fried Rice with Shrimp Recipe
Summary: This sweet and savory dish combines the flavors of pineapple, shrimp, and fried rice for a delicious and easy meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1/2 cup diced pineapple
– 1/2 cup peeled and deveined shrimp
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes; set aside.
3. Add onion and garlic; stir-fry until softened.
4. Add mixed vegetables and pineapple; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
5. Add cooked rice to the skillet or wok; stir-fry for about 5 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
6. Return shrimp to the skillet or wok; stir in soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Greek Rice Salad with Olives and Cucumber
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of Greece with the comfort of a warm rice bowl. With its crunchy texture, tangy taste, and explosion of Mediterranean flair, this dish is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, olives, cucumber, onion, and feta cheese.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice; season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Mix well to combine all the flavors.
4. Garnish with chopped parsley or dill, if desired.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (includes cooking time for rice)
Red Lentil and Rice Soup
This hearty soup is a comforting blend of red lentils, flavorful spices, and aromatic rice. Perfect for a chilly evening or as a nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried red lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup cooked white rice
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), and turmeric. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add the lentils, water, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until lentils are tender.
4. Stir in cooked rice. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Basil Pesto Rice with Cherry Tomatoes
This vibrant and flavorful side dish combines the classic Italian flavors of basil pesto with the sweetness of cherry tomatoes, perfect for accompanying your favorite main courses. With its aromatic scent and pop of color, this recipe is sure to elevate any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 2 tablespoons basil pesto
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine cooked rice, basil pesto, and chopped parsley. Mix well to combine.
2. Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the bowl and gently fold them into the rice mixture.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Sweet Potato and Black Rice Salad
This vibrant salad combines the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with the nutty flavor of black rice, perfect for a quick and easy side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup cooked black rice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked black rice, roasted sweet potatoes, and chopped cilantro.
5. Whisk together remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil and apple cider vinegar.
6. Pour dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meals with these 20 delicious and healthy rice recipes! From Buddha bowls to stuffed sweet potatoes, this collection offers something for everyone. Try quinoa and brown rice mixed with roasted vegetables, or go tropical with jasmine rice and mango. You’ll also find international flavors like teriyaki tofu and Mediterranean-stuffed bell peppers. And don’t forget the comfort food classics, like broccoli and cheese casserole. With these nutritious recipes, you can enjoy a flavorful and balanced meal any time of day.
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