Rice With Vegetables
Rice With Vegetables is a simple, colorful, and nutritious side dish that comes together in under 30 minutes. Packed with fluffy rice, crisp-tender vegetables, and Asian-inspired flavors, it's perfect for quick weeknight meals.
Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain white rice or brown rice for extra fiber
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil or avocado oil
- 1 medium yellow onion diced (red onion works, too)
- 2 cloves garlic minced (fresh yields the best aroma)
- 1 red bell pepper red bell pepper diced (for sweetness and color)
- 1 cup broccoli florets fresh or frozen, thawed
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots mix or 1 cup chopped seasonal vegetables
- 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce use tamari for gluten-free
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil for a nutty finish
- ½ teaspoon black pepper fresh-ground
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional, for a spicy kick
- 2 green onions green onions thinly sliced (garnish)
- 2 tablespoons sliced almonds or cashews for crunch
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Have a spatula and lid handy—this helps you sauté just right.
- Add olive oil, swirl to coat. Toss in diced onion and garlic; stir for about 1–2 minutes until the kitchen smells amazing and onions look translucent.
- Stir in bell pepper and broccoli. Cook 3–4 minutes, stirring often so nothing burns. You’re aiming for crisp-tender, not mushy.
- Add the cooked rice, breaking up any clumps with your spatula. Let it sizzle for 2 minutes so it gets a tiny toasty edge.
- Drizzle soy sauce and sesame oil; sprinkle black pepper and red pepper flakes (if using). Keep tossing until every grain is coated and veggies are tender-crisp.
- Taste and tweak—add a pinch more salt or soy sauce if needed. Turn off heat, stir in green onions and nuts (if desired).
- Spoon into bowls, garnish with extra scallions or a wedge of lime for brightness. It’s ready to serve!
Notes
Fresh veggies give the best texture, but frozen ones are a lifesaver when time’s tight. If your rice turns out clumpy, give it a quick rinse under warm water before cooking next time. Want more flavor depth? Toast your rice in oil for 1 minute before adding water—it smells heavenly.
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