Are you tired of the same old plain rice dishes? Look no further! In this article, we’re excited to share 20 delicious and varied vegetable rice recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. From savory stir-fries to sweet and spicy curries, these mouth-watering dishes are perfect for any occasion – whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner, a special celebration, or a family gathering.
From classic combinations like garlic butter and Thai basil, to innovative flavors like coconut curry and teriyaki, we’ve got you covered. And the best part? These recipes are all packed with nutritious vegetables, making them a great way to get your daily dose of greens while still satisfying your cravings.
So go ahead, dive in, and explore the world of vegetable rice – we can’t wait for you to try these tasty dishes!
Garlic Butter Vegetable Fried Rice
Transform leftover rice into a flavorful and aromatic dish with this simple recipe. Garlic butter adds a rich and savory twist to the classic vegetable fried rice.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon garlic butter, melted
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the mixed vegetables, diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the vegetables are tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Push the vegetable mixture to one side of the pan. Crack in the beaten eggs and scramble them until cooked through.
4. Mix the eggs with the vegetables.
5. Add the melted garlic butter, cooked rice, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir-fry everything together for about 2-3 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spicy Thai Basil Vegetable Rice
This flavorful rice dish combines the warmth of Thai chilies with the brightness of fresh basil and a variety of colorful vegetables. Perfect as a side or main course, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 carrot, peeled and grated
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-2 Thai bird’s eye chilies, seeded and chopped
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, corn, zucchini)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon fish sauce (optional)
– 1/4 cup fresh Thai basil leaves, chopped
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion, bell pepper, and carrot; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add garlic, chilies, and mixed vegetables; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in soy sauce and fish sauce (if using).
6. Combine cooked rice with vegetable mixture and chopped basil.
7. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mediterranean Herb Vegetable Rice Pilaf
A flavorful and nutritious pilaf that combines the warmth of Mediterranean herbs with the comfort of sautéed vegetables and fluffy rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, zucchini)
– 2 teaspoons dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add mixed vegetables; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add rice, water, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is cooked.
6. Fluff with a fork; garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Coconut Curry Vegetable Rice
This flavorful and nutritious dish is a perfect blend of creamy coconut milk, aromatic spices, and tender vegetables, served over fluffy basmati rice. This recipe is quick to prepare and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 teaspoons curry powder
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic, bell pepper, and carrot. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Stir in curry powder and coconut milk. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes.
5. Fluff cooked rice with a fork. Serve the vegetable mixture over the rice. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mexican-Style Vegetable Cilantro Lime Rice
This flavorful rice dish combines the bright flavors of cilantro, lime, and vegetables with the warmth of Mexican spices. Perfect as a side or main course for your next fiesta!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tablespoons)
– Salt to taste
– Optional: 1 teaspoon cumin
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add rice, water, black beans, cilantro, lime juice, salt, and cumin (if using). Bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until water is absorbed and rice is cooked.
5. Fluff with a fork and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Teriyaki Vegetable Stir-Fry Rice
A flavorful and nutritious Asian-inspired dish that combines savory teriyaki sauce with a variety of colorful vegetables, served over fluffy rice. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white or brown rice
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 1 carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons teriyaki sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, bell pepper, and carrot; cook until the vegetables are tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in the broccoli and cook for an additional minute.
4. Pour in the teriyaki sauce and stir to coat the vegetables evenly.
5. Serve the vegetable mixture over cooked rice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Herb Vegetable Rice with Feta
This recipe combines the freshness of lemon and herbs with the creaminess of feta to create a vibrant and flavorful rice dish that pairs perfectly with grilled meats, seafood, or as a vegetarian main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, snap peas)
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add mixed vegetables; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Add rice to the saucepan; stir to combine with vegetables and herbs.
5. Add water, lemon juice, salt, and pepper; bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
7. Fluff rice with a fork; top with crumbled feta cheese.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vegetable Biryani with Fragrant Basmati Rice
This aromatic rice dish is a staple of Indian cuisine, packed with a medley of colorful vegetables and infused with the warm spices of the East. With this simple recipe, you’ll be able to recreate the flavors of India in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons ghee or vegetable oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., cauliflower, peas, corn)
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for at least 30 minutes.
2. Heat ghee or oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
3. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, grated carrot, and diced bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
4. Add mixed vegetables, coriander powder, salt, and 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until rice is cooked.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Cheesy Broccoli and Cauliflower Rice Casserole
A creamy, comforting casserole that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe combines the flavors of broccoli, cauliflower, and cheddar cheese with a hint of garlic and nutmeg.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into small pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté broccoli and cauliflower in butter until tender.
3. In a separate bowl, combine cooked rice, cheddar cheese, flour, garlic powder, and nutmeg.
4. Add the cooked broccoli and cauliflower mixture to the rice mixture and stir until combined.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ginger Soy Vegetable Fried Rice
Transform ordinary rice into an extraordinary dish with this flavorful recipe! This classic Chinese-inspired fried rice is elevated by the addition of ginger and soy sauce, giving it a depth of flavor that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– 2 tablespoons 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 diced onion and minced garlic; stir-fry until softened.
3. Add mixed vegetables and cook until they’re tender-crisp.
4. Add cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
5. Stir in grated ginger and soy sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Vegetable and Wild Rice Salad
Roasted Vegetable and Wild Rice Salad Recipe
This hearty salad combines the nutty flavor of wild rice with a colorful medley of roasted vegetables, perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked wild rice
– 2 cups mixed roasted vegetables (such as Brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes, red onions, and cauliflower)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss the mixed vegetables with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked wild rice, roasted vegetables, and chopped parsley.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard.
5. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spinach and Mushroom Risotto
This creamy risotto dish combines the earthy flavors of sautéed mushrooms and wilted spinach with Arborio rice, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, 3-4 minutes.
2. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
3. Add Arborio rice; cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add warmed broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring constantly and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
5. Stir in spinach leaves until wilted. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Remove from heat; stir in Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tomato Basil Vegetable Rice Bake
This flavorful rice bake combines fresh tomatoes, basil, and a medley of vegetables with aromatic spices and herbs, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend lunch. With minimal preparation time and cooking, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 large tomato, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 small zucchini, sliced
– 1 small yellow squash, sliced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon paprika for added smokiness
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine rice and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 15-20 minutes or until rice is cooked.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine diced tomato, chopped basil, red bell pepper, zucchini, and yellow squash.
4. Add cooked rice, olive oil, salt, and pepper to the vegetable mixture; stir well.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. If using paprika, sprinkle on top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until vegetables are tender and flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Carrot and Pea Turmeric Rice
This vibrant and flavorful rice dish combines the natural sweetness of carrots and peas with the warm, earthy spices of turmeric. Perfect for a quick and easy side dish or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 medium carrot, peeled and grated
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen peas
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer until water runs clear.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice and water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until water is absorbed.
3. While the rice cooks, heat the olive oil in a separate pan over medium-high heat. Add the grated carrot and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender.
4. Stir in the peas and cook until they’re bright green and slightly tender.
5. Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and add the turmeric. Mix well to combine.
6. Combine the cooked carrot and pea mixture with the turmeric rice. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Zucchini and Corn Mexican Rice
This flavorful rice dish combines the freshness of zucchini and corn with the bold spices of Mexico, making it a perfect side dish for your next fiesta. With its vibrant colors and aromatic flavors, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 medium zucchini, diced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the rice and stir to coat with the oil and mix with the onion and garlic.
5. Add the water, zucchini, corn kernels, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is tender and fluffy.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Sweet Potato and Black Bean Rice Bowl
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with the savory flavor of black beans, all served over a bed of fluffy rice. It’s a nutritious and filling meal that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup cooked white or brown rice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: avocado slices, salsa, cilantro for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pierce the sweet potatoes with a fork several times and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the black beans to the pan and stir to combine with the onion mixture.
6. Serve the black bean mixture over a bed of cooked rice, topped with roasted sweet potato slices.
Cooking Time: approximately 1 hour
Pineapple Fried Rice with Mixed Vegetables
Pineapple Fried Rice with Mixed Vegetables: A flavorful twist on traditional fried rice, this recipe combines the sweetness of pineapple with the savory taste of mixed vegetables and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 cup diced fresh pineapple
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the mixed vegetables, pineapple, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Push the vegetable mixture to one side of the pan. Crack in the eggs and scramble them until cooked through.
5. Mix the eggs with the vegetable mixture. Add the cooked rice, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
6. Stir-fry everything together for about 2-3 minutes, or until the rice is heated through and slightly toasted.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes
Eggplant and Bell Pepper Rice Medley
A flavorful and colorful side dish that combines the richness of eggplant with the sweetness of bell peppers, all wrapped up in a savory rice medley. Perfect for accompanying your favorite grilled meats or as a satisfying vegetarian main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium eggplant, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the eggplant and bell peppers; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the cooked rice, diced onion, and minced garlic to the skillet; stir to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes
Pesto Vegetable Rice with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
This flavorful side dish combines the classic Italian flavors of pesto and sun-dried tomatoes with the comfort of creamy rice. Perfect for accompanying grilled meats or as a vegetarian main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 3 tablespoons pesto sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
4. Add the cooked rice, pesto sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until well combined.
5. Stir in the chopped basil leaves.
6. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Kimchi Fried Rice with Assorted Veggies
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional fried rice, this recipe combines the spicy kick of kimchi with a variety of colorful vegetables. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup kimchi, chopped
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, carrots, snap peas, mushrooms)
– 2 eggs, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 2 minutes.
3. Add the mixed vegetables; cook until tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Push the vegetables to one side of the pan. Crack in the eggs; scramble until cooked through.
5. Mix the eggs with the vegetables.
6. Add the chopped kimchi and cooked rice to the pan. Stir-fry until everything is well combined and heated through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Discover a world of flavors with these 20 mouth-watering vegetable rice recipes, perfect for any occasion! From classic dishes like Garlic Butter Vegetable Fried Rice to international-inspired creations like Spicy Thai Basil Vegetable Rice and Coconut Curry Vegetable Rice, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy Mediterranean Herb Vegetable Rice Pilaf, Mexican-Style Vegetable Cilantro Lime Rice, Teriyaki Vegetable Stir-Fry Rice, and many more. Whether you’re in the mood for cheesy, herby, or spicy, these recipes will satisfy your cravings.
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