Description
A flavorful Mediterranean rice dish combining aromatic herbs, vibrant vegetables, and perfectly cooked rice for a satisfying meal that’s both healthy and delicious.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups long-grain rice (Arborio or Basmati)
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, torn
- 1/3 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Pinch of saffron threads (optional)
Instructions
- Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Add diced peppers and cook 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Add rice and toast for 2-3 minutes, stirring continuously.
- Pour in broth, lemon juice, and all dried herbs and spices. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Remove from heat, keep covered for 5 minutes.
- Fold in tomatoes, olives, remaining olive oil, fresh herbs, and feta if using.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Notes
- For a healthier version, use brown rice (adjust cooking time accordingly)
- Make it vegan by omitting feta or using plant-based alternatives
- Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
- Can be frozen for up to 2 months
- Add chickpeas or white beans for extra protein
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 8mg
Keywords: mediterranean rice, rice pilaf, vegetarian rice, healthy rice dish, mediterranean cuisine, pine nuts, garlic, Orzo pasta, lemon, dill weed, long grain rice, olive oil, Basmati rice, chicken broth, olive oil, turmeric