When it comes to healthy eating, one staple ingredient that often gets overlooked is rice. But with so many varieties and flavors out there, it’s time to give this grain its due. From classic brown rice to more exotic options like quinoa and jasmine, the possibilities are endless. In this article, we’ll explore 18 delicious and nutritious rice recipes that are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Whether you’re in the mood for something savory, sweet, or spicy, we’ve got you covered with our collection of healthy rice recipes. From Buddha bowls to sushi rolls, get ready to spice up your meal routine with these mouthwatering dishes.
Quinoa and Brown Rice Buddha Bowl
Elevate your mealtime with this nutritious Quinoa and Brown Rice Buddha Bowl, packed with protein-rich edamame, crunchy veggies, and a tangy tahini dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 1 cup brown rice
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 cup frozen edamame
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, carrots, snap peas)
– 2 tablespoons tahini
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 teaspoons sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped green onions, sliced almonds, or pickled ginger for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse quinoa and brown rice in a fine-mesh strainer.
2. In a medium pot, combine quinoa, brown rice, and water/broth. Bring to a boil; reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until grains are tender.
3. Meanwhile, steam edamame according to package instructions.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
5. Assemble the Buddha Bowl by placing cooked quinoa and brown rice mixture at the base, followed by steamed edamame, mixed vegetables, and drizzle with tahini dressing. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Garlic Butter Cauliflower Rice
Transform plain cauliflower into a creamy, flavorful rice alternative with this simple recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem. Cut into florets.
3. Pulse the cauliflower in a food processor until it resembles rice.
4. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
5. Add the processed cauliflower to the skillet, stirring to combine with the garlic butter mixture.
6. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the cauliflower is tender and lightly browned.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle on top and stir to combine.
8. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Turmeric Coconut Rice with Chickpeas
Brighten up your mealtime with this flavorful and nutritious dish, infused with the warmth of turmeric and the creaminess of coconut milk.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon coconut oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 teaspoons ground turmeric
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer, then combine with water in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed.
2. In a large skillet, heat coconut oil over medium-high. Add onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until translucent.
3. Stir in turmeric, ginger, chickpeas, and cooked rice. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
4. Fluff the mixture with a fork, then stir in coconut milk and salt to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spinach and Mushroom Wild Rice Pilaf
A hearty and flavorful vegetarian pilaf that combines the nutty taste of wild rice with the earthy flavors of sautéed mushrooms and spinach.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wild rice
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and oyster), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Rinse the wild rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the sliced mushrooms and minced garlic to the pan. Cook until the mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Add the wild rice to the pan, stirring to combine with the mushroom mixture. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the water or broth to the pan, bringing the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 40-45 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
6. Stir in the fresh spinach leaves and season with salt and pepper to taste. If using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle on top and serve.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lemon Herb Brown Rice Salad
Elevate your side dish game with this refreshing Lemon Herb Brown Rice Salad, perfect for a quick and easy accompaniment to your favorite meals. With the tanginess of lemon, the brightness of herbs, and the nutty flavor of brown rice, this salad is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked brown rice
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together lemon juice and olive oil.
2. Add the cooked brown rice, chopped parsley, and chopped basil to the bowl. Toss until well combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. If using, add diced red bell pepper and toss gently.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (includes preparation time)
Black Bean and Rice Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the comforting flavors of black beans and rice with the sweetness of roasted bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheese for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large bowl, mix together cooked black beans, cooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, and olive oil.
4. Stuff each pepper with the bean and rice mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place peppers in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Roast for 30 minutes.
7. Remove foil and continue roasting for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Mediterranean Rice with Olives and Feta
A flavorful and aromatic side dish that combines the warmth of Mediterranean spices with the tanginess of olives and feta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil in a medium saucepan.
2. Add the rice, olive oil, onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
3. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
4. Fluff the rice with a fork and stir in the sliced olives and crumbled feta cheese.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Vegetable Stir-Fry with Brown Rice
This quick and flavorful recipe combines the nutty goodness of brown rice with a colorful medley of vegetables, all cooked to perfection in a savory stir-fry. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch option.
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 small zucchini, sliced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g. broccoli, carrots, snap peas)
– 1 teaspoon 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 onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add bell pepper and zucchini; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Add mixed vegetables and soy sauce; stir-fry until vegetables are tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Serve brown rice alongside the vegetable stir-fry.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Jasmine Rice with Edamame and Sesame
This aromatic rice dish combines the nutty flavor of sesame seeds with the sweet taste of edamame, all wrapped up in a fragrant jasmine rice bowl. Perfect as a side dish or light meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup jasmine rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup edamame (boiled and shelled)
– 2 tbsp sesame seeds
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the jasmine rice in a fine mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
3. While the rice is cooking, heat the sesame oil in a small pan over medium heat. Add the edamame and cook, stirring occasionally, until lightly toasted (about 5 minutes).
4. Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and stir in the edamame mixture and sesame seeds.
5. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mexican Cilantro Lime Rice
A flavorful and aromatic Mexican-inspired rice dish infused with the brightness of lime juice, the freshness of cilantro, and a hint of spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and combine with water in a medium saucepan.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
3. Heat olive oil in a small skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in chopped cilantro, lime juice, cumin, and salt to taste.
5. Once the rice is cooked, fluff with a fork and add the cilantro mixture. Toss to combine.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet Potato and Kale Rice Bowl
A nutritious and flavorful bowl that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the earthy taste of kale, all on a bed of fluffy rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for added heat
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the sweet potato cubes with 1/2 tablespoon of the olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast the sweet potatoes in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
4. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
5. Add the chopped kale to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 3-5 minutes.
6. To assemble the bowls, divide the cooked rice between two bowls. Top with roasted sweet potatoes and wilted kale.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Basil Pesto Rice with Cherry Tomatoes
Elevate your rice game with this flavorful and colorful dish, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white or brown rice (preferably day-old)
– 2 tablespoons basil pesto
– 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine cooked rice and basil pesto. Mix well until the rice is evenly coated.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until they start to release their juices.
3. Add the rice mixture to the skillet and stir-fry for about 5 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
4. Season with salt to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Red Lentil and Rice Soup
A hearty and comforting soup that combines the nutty flavor of red lentils with the creamy texture of rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried red lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: lemon wedges and fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little water until softened.
2. Add the lentils, rice, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Pour in the water or broth and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils and rice are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges and parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Teriyaki Salmon with Jasmine Rice
Teriyaki Salmon with Jasmine Rice Recipe
Summary: This recipe combines the rich flavor of teriyaki salmon with the aromatic goodness of jasmine rice, perfect for a quick and delicious dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 cup jasmine rice
– 2 cups water
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, brown sugar, and soy sauce.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place salmon fillets.
4. Brush the teriyaki mixture evenly over the salmon.
5. Drizzle vegetable oil over the salmon.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Cook jasmine rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Avocado and Black Rice Sushi Rolls
Experience the creamy richness of avocado paired with nutty black rice in a unique sushi roll.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black rice
– 2 ripe avocados, mashed
– 1/2 cup sushi vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 sheet nori seaweed (dried)
– Optional fillings: diced cucumber, carrot, or pickled ginger
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine cooked black rice and mashed avocado.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together sushi vinegar and water.
3. Add the sesame oil to the mixture and stir well.
4. Lay the nori sheet flat on a cutting board.
5. Spread about 1 tablespoon of the black rice-avocado mixture onto the seaweed, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
6. Roll the sushi using a bamboo mat or your hands, applying gentle pressure to form a compact roll.
7. Slice into 8 equal pieces and serve with optional fillings.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (including preparation)
Spicy Kimchi Fried Rice
Transform leftover rice into a flavorful and spicy dish with this easy recipe.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old rice)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup kimchi, chopped (spicy Korean fermented cabbage)
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add chopped kimchi and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, until heated through.
5. Push kimchi mixture to one side of the pan. Crack in beaten eggs and scramble until cooked through.
6. Mix eggs with kimchi mixture. Add cooked rice, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Stir-fry everything together for about 5 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions (if desired).
9. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Curried Rice with Peas and Carrots
A flavorful and aromatic side dish that combines the comfort of rice with the sweetness of peas and carrots, all infused with the warmth of curry.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the rice and curry powder; stir to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Add the water and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
7. Stir in the frozen peas and carrots; cook until thawed.
8. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Baked Chicken and Rice Casserole
A classic comfort food dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 can (10.5 oz) of cream of chicken soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, chicken, cream of chicken soup, and milk. Mix well until the chicken is coated evenly.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Sprinkle shredded cheese and chopped parsley on top.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the casserole is hot and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Summary
Discover 18 delicious and nutritious rice recipes to spice up your meal routine! From savory Buddha bowls to flavorful stir-fries, these healthy rice dishes are perfect for any occasion. Try Quinoa and Brown Rice Buddha Bowl or Garlic Butter Cauliflower Rice for a satisfying vegetarian option. Or go international with Mediterranean Rice with Olives and Feta or Mexican Cilantro Lime Rice. There’s something for everyone in this collection of tasty and nutritious recipes that will keep you coming back for more.
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