Are you tired of the same old rice dishes? Look no further! In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious and nutritious rice recipes that will take your meal game to the next level. From classic stir-fries to bold international flavors, these rice recipes are perfect for busy home cooks, health-conscious eaters, and anyone looking to mix things up in the kitchen.
Whether you’re a fan of savory dishes or sweet treats, we’ve got you covered with our collection of mouthwatering rice recipes. Get ready to spice up your meal routine and discover new favorite flavors!
Stay tuned for the full list of recipes below!
Brown Rice and Vegetable Stir-Fry
This quick and easy recipe combines the nutty flavor of brown rice with a colorful stir-fry of your favorite vegetables, making it a healthy and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown rice
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 1 carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., broccoli, snap peas, mushrooms)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: soy sauce or stir-fry seasoning for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Cook brown rice according to package instructions using water or vegetable broth.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
4. Add bell pepper and carrot; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Add mixed vegetables; stir-fry until they are tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Combine cooked brown rice with the vegetable mixture; season with salt, pepper, and optional soy sauce or stir-fry seasoning.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Quinoa and Brown Rice Salad
A nutritious and flavorful salad that combines the nutty taste of quinoa with the earthy flavor of brown rice, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 cup cooked brown rice
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa and brown rice.
2. Add the diced red bell pepper, cucumber, and parsley to the bowl.
3. Drizzle the olive oil and lemon juice over the mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Toss gently to combine.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (includes cooking time for quinoa and brown rice)
Turmeric Coconut Rice with Chickpeas
A flavorful and nutritious one-pot dish that combines the warmth of turmeric with the creaminess of coconut milk, all wrapped up with chickpeas and fluffy rice.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
• 2 cups water
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 can (14.5 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup coconut milk
• Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and combine with water in a medium saucepan.
2. Heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in turmeric and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chickpeas, coconut milk, salt to taste, and rice mixture. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
5. Fluff with a fork and garnish with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Lemon Garlic Herb Rice
Brighten up your meals with this flavorful rice dish, perfect for accompanying grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or as a side to your favorite soups.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil in a medium saucepan.
2. Add the rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed.
3. While the rice cooks, heat the olive oil in a small skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute or until fragrant.
5. Stir in the lemon juice, thyme, salt, and pepper.
6. Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and stir in the garlic-lemon mixture.
7. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Cauliflower Rice with Spinach and Mushrooms
A healthy twist on traditional rice, this recipe uses cauliflower as a low-carb substitute, paired with sautéed spinach and mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup sliced mushrooms (such as cremini or shiitake)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, lemon juice, or other seasonings of your choice
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem. Cut into florets and pulse in a food processor until it resembles rice.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the spinach leaves to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 1 minute.
4. Add the cauliflower “rice” to the skillet, stirring to combine with the mushroom and spinach mixture. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender but still crisp.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and any desired additional seasonings. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Black Bean and Rice Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the comfort of rice and beans with the sweetness of roasted peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the cumin, then add the cooked black beans and rice. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until heated through.
5. Stuff each pepper with the bean-rice mixture, filling to the top.
6. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
7. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Mediterranean Rice Bowl with Grilled Chicken
Mediterranean Rice Bowl with Grilled Chicken Recipe
Savor the flavors of the Mediterranean with this hearty and healthy recipe, featuring grilled chicken, creamy hummus, and a bed of fluffy rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1/2 cup hummus
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a medium saucepan, bring rice and water to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until rice is tender.
3. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side or until cooked through. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
4. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, parsley, and feta cheese (if using).
5. To assemble the bowls, place cooked rice in the bottom, followed by sliced grilled chicken, hummus, and a sprinkle of parsley.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spicy Kimchi Fried Rice
A spicy twist on a classic Chinese dish, this recipe combines the bold flavors of kimchi with the comfort of fried rice.
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 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic and stir-fry until softened, about 2 minutes.
3. Add the kimchi and stir-fry for another minute, breaking up any large chunks.
4. Add the cooked rice to the pan, stirring constantly to combine with the kimchi mixture.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the rice to toast slightly.
6. Add the soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using), and stir-fry until the rice is well coated.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Transfer to a serving platter and garnish with chopped scallions.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Wild Rice and Kale Soup
This hearty soup combines the nutty flavor of wild rice with the earthy taste of kale, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wild rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped kale leaves
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the wild rice, vegetable broth, chopped kale, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the rice is tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional kale leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Jasmine Rice with Edamame and Sesame
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of sesame seeds with the creamy sweetness of edamame, all wrapped up in fluffy jasmine rice. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Jasmine rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup edamame, shelled and sliced
– 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the jasmine rice in a fine-mesh strainer until the water runs clear. Drain and set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the edamame and cook for 2-3 minutes or until tender.
3. Add the sesame seeds to the saucepan and stir-fry for an additional minute.
4. Add the jasmine rice to the saucepan, stirring to coat with the oil and mix with the edamame and sesame seeds.
5. Add the water to the saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is fluffy.
6. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vegetable Biryani with Basmati Rice
A flavorful and aromatic one-pot dish that combines the richness of basmati rice with the vibrant colors and textures of a medley of vegetables. This Vegetable Biryani is a perfect blend of spices, herbs, and aromas that will leave you craving for more.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Basmati Rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the basmati rice and soak it in water for at least 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
3. Add minced garlic, cumin seeds, coriander powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add mixed vegetables and cook until they are tender.
5. Add the soaked basmati rice to the pan and stir gently.
6. Add 2 cups of water to the pan and bring to a boil.
7. Reduce heat to low, cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and fluffy.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mexican Cilantro Lime Rice
Mexican Cilantro Lime Rice Recipe
This vibrant rice dish combines the freshness of lime juice and cilantro with the warmth of Mexican spices, making it a perfect side for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the rice to the saucepan and stir to coat with the spice 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 tender.
6. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork. Stir in the chopped cilantro and lime juice.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Greek Rice Salad with Feta and Olives
A classic Greek-inspired salad that combines the simplicity of cooked rice with the bold flavors of feta cheese, olives, and fresh herbs. Perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup pitted and sliced Kalamata olives
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, feta cheese, olives, and parsley.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice; season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Toss gently to combine all ingredients.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes of assembly.
Red Lentil and Rice Stew
This hearty stew is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, with the comforting warmth of red lentils and fluffy rice. It’s an easy-to-make, one-pot meal that’s perfect for a cozy evening in.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried red lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine lentils, water or broth, rice, onion, garlic, carrot, and spices.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and the rice is cooked.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes and season with salt and pepper.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Garlic Butter Mushroom Rice
Elevate your meal with this flavorful and aromatic rice dish, infused with the richness of garlic butter and sautéed mushrooms.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they release their moisture and start browning.
4. Stir in the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter until melted and combined with the mushroom mixture.
5. Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and stir in the garlic butter mushroom mixture.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Teriyaki Salmon Rice Bowl
This Japanese-inspired dish combines sweet and savory flavors with a flavorful teriyaki sauce, tender salmon, and fluffy rice. A quick and easy recipe perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup cooked Japanese rice
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup sliced green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, and honey until smooth.
3. Place the salmon fillets in a shallow baking dish and brush with the teriyaki mixture.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Cook Japanese rice according to package instructions.
6. Divide cooked rice into bowls. Top with baked salmon and garnish with green onions.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Avocado and Brown Rice Sushi Rolls
A creative twist on traditional sushi, this recipe combines the creaminess of avocado with the nutty flavor of brown rice for a unique and delicious snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 1 cup cooked brown rice (preferably day-old)
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 sheet nori seaweed
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together cooked brown rice and water until well combined.
2. Lay the nori sheet flat on a surface. Spread a thin layer of the brown rice mixture onto the seaweed, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
3. Place a spoonful of mashed avocado in the center of the rice.
4. Using your fingers or a sushi mat, shape the rice and avocado into a tight roll.
5. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
6. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes per roll
Pineapple Fried Rice with Shrimp
Transform a humble bowl of fried rice into a tropical getaway with the sweet and savory combination of pineapple, shrimp, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1/2 cup diced fresh pineapple
– 1/2 cup peeled and deveined shrimp
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until they’re tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Push the vegetables to one side; add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil and scramble in the shrimp until pink and cooked through.
4. Mix the shrimp with the vegetables; stir in the minced garlic, soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
5. Add the cooked rice to the skillet or wok, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes, until the rice is heated through and starting to brown.
6. Fold in the diced pineapple; cook for an additional minute, until the flavors are well combined.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet Potato and Black Rice Salad
This sweet and savory salad combines the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with the nutty flavor of black rice, making it a perfect side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1 cup cooked black rice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Pierce the sweet potatoes several times with a fork and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. Cook the black rice according to package instructions.
4. In a large bowl, combine the roasted sweet potatoes, cooked black rice, chopped cilantro, and crumbled feta cheese (if using).
5. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and apple cider vinegar.
6. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 55 minutes
Herbed Rice Pilaf with Almonds
A flavorful and aromatic pilaf recipe that combines the simplicity of cooked rice with the warmth of herbs and crunchy almonds.
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 tablespoon dried thyme
– 1 tablespoon dried rosemary
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
Instructions:
1. Rinse the 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 translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the rinsed rice to the saucepan and stir to coat with the oil mixture. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Add the water, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper to the saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and fluffy.
6. Fluff the pilaf with a fork and stir in the sliced almonds.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Summary
Discover a variety of delicious and healthy rice recipes! From international dishes like Vegetable Biryani with Basmati Rice and Pineapple Fried Rice with Shrimp, to Mediterranean-inspired meals like Lemon Garlic Herb Rice and Greek Rice Salad with Feta and Olives. You’ll also find creative twists on classic comfort foods, such as Brown Rice and Vegetable Stir-Fry and Spicy Kimchi Fried Rice. Plus, explore nutritious options like Wild Rice and Kale Soup and Red Lentil and Rice Stew. Whatever your taste buds crave, there’s a healthy rice recipe to satisfy you!
Leave a Reply