Hey there! I’m really excited to share this super simple rice recipe with you. It’s one of those easy to make recipes that can save you on those busy weeknights when you just want something quick but delicious. I remember the first time I made this for my family; the kitchen filled with the comforting aroma of garlic and vegetables, and everyone gathered around the table, eager for a taste. It turned out to be a hit! This dish is not only satisfying, but it’s also incredibly versatile. You can throw in whatever veggies you have lying around, and it’s a great way to use up leftovers. So, let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike!
Ingredients List
- 1 cup of rice (any type you prefer)
- 2 cups of water
- 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1 cup of diced mixed vegetables (fresh or frozen)
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
Make sure to measure everything accurately for the best results! If you’re feeling adventurous, you can swap out the mixed vegetables for whatever you have on hand—think bell peppers, peas, or even corn. Just be sure to chop them into bite-sized pieces so they cook evenly. Trust me, this flexibility makes it even more fun to whip up this dish!
How to Prepare Instructions
Step 1: Rinse the Rice
First things first, let’s rinse that rice! This is super important because it helps remove excess starch, which can make your rice sticky instead of fluffy. Just grab a fine mesh strainer or a bowl, place the rice inside, and run cold water over it. Swirl the rice around with your hand until the water runs clear. This usually takes a minute or two. Trust me, this little step makes a big difference!
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
Now, let’s get cooking! In a medium-sized pot, combine your rinsed rice, 2 cups of water, 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Make sure to get those proportions right, as they’ll ensure the rice cooks perfectly. Stir everything together just a bit to mix it up, but don’t overdo it—you want the rice grains to stay intact.
Step 3: Boil the Mixture
Next, we’re going to bring this mixture to a boil. Place the pot over medium-high heat and keep an eye on it. You’ll know it’s boiling when you see bubbles forming all over the surface. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once you see those bubbles, it’s time to move on!
Step 4: Simmer and Cover
Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a lid. It’s super important not to lift that lid during cooking—this keeps the steam trapped inside, which is essential for perfectly cooked rice. Let it simmer for about 18 minutes. No peeking!
Step 5: Add Vegetables
With about 5 minutes left on the timer, it’s time to add in your diced mixed vegetables. Just sprinkle them on top of the rice without stirring. This way, they’ll steam perfectly and retain their lovely texture. You’ll get that bright pop of color and flavor right in the last few minutes of cooking!
Step 6: Let it Sit
Once the timer goes off, remove the pot from the heat but keep it covered for another 5 minutes. This resting period is crucial as it allows the rice to finish cooking and soak up all those delicious flavors. Patience is key here!
Step 7: Fluff and Serve
Finally, it’s time to fluff that rice! Remove the lid and use a fork to gently fluff the rice, separating the grains. Then, sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of garlic powder and mix it in. Serve it warm, and if you’d like, pair it with some protein or a fresh salad on the side. Enjoy your easy, delicious meal!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy preparation: You can whip this up in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for those busy weeknights!
- Healthy and vegetarian-friendly: Packed with veggies and wholesome ingredients, this dish is a guilt-free choice that everyone can enjoy.
- Versatile with any vegetables: Use whatever you have on hand—frozen or fresh, they all work beautifully in this recipe!
- Tasty and satisfying meal: The combination of fluffy rice and flavorful veggies makes for a hearty dish that will leave you feeling full and happy.
Tips for Success
Making this rice dish is straightforward, but here are some handy tips to ensure it turns out perfectly every time!
- Rinse the Rice: Don’t skip the rinsing step! It’s essential to remove excess starch, which can cause the rice to clump together. Rinse until the water runs clear for fluffy grains.
- Use the Right Pot: A medium-sized pot works best. If it’s too small, the rice might boil over; if it’s too big, it won’t steam properly. Find that sweet spot!
- Don’t Lift the Lid: I know it’s tempting to peek, but lifting the lid while the rice cooks lets steam escape, which can lead to undercooked rice. Trust the process and leave it covered!
- Check Water Ratio: Stick to the 2:1 water to rice ratio for best results. If you’re using brown rice, you’ll need to adjust the water and cooking time, so keep that in mind.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add herbs or spices to the water for extra flavor! A bay leaf or some fresh herbs can elevate the taste without much effort.
- Mix Vegetables Wisely: If you’re using frozen vegetables, there’s no need to thaw them beforehand. Just toss them in at the right time, and they’ll cook perfectly!
- Let it Rest: After cooking, let it sit covered for a few extra minutes. This is key to letting the rice absorb all the flavors and finish cooking.
By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to whipping up a fantastic rice dish that’s not only easy to make but also absolutely delicious!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional values for one serving of this tasty rice dish. Keep in mind that these values can vary slightly based on the specific ingredients you use, but it gives you a good idea of what you’re getting!
- Calories: 200
- Fat: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
This dish is not only healthy but also a great way to fuel your day with wholesome ingredients. Enjoy every bite knowing it’s good for you!
FAQ Section
Can I use brown rice instead?
Absolutely! Brown rice is a great option, but it does require a bit more water and time to cook. For every cup of brown rice, use about 2.5 cups of water and increase the cooking time to around 40-45 minutes. Just remember to check it occasionally to make sure it doesn’t run out of water before it’s cooked through. You’ll love the nuttier flavor and extra fiber it brings to the dish!
What vegetables work best?
You can really get creative here! Some of my favorite vegetables to use are peas, carrots, bell peppers, and corn. You can even toss in some broccoli or spinach for a pop of color and nutrition. If you have frozen veggies on hand, they work perfectly too—just add them at the same time as fresh ones, and they’ll steam right up!
How to store leftovers?
If you have any leftovers (which I hope you do, because they’re fantastic!), let the rice cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to loosen it up. You can also freeze it for up to a month—just make sure to pack it in a freezer-safe container!
Can I add protein to this dish?
Yes, you can totally amp up this meal with some protein! Adding canned beans, like black beans or chickpeas, is an easy way to boost the nutrition. If you prefer something like tofu, just dice it up and sauté it separately before mixing it in. You could even throw in some cooked chicken or shrimp for a meaty twist. The possibilities are endless, and it’ll make your dish even more satisfying!
Serving Suggestions
This rice dish is so versatile that it can pair beautifully with a variety of sides to create a complete and satisfying meal. Here are some of my favorite suggestions:
- Fresh Salad: A simple green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the rice perfectly. The crispness of the salad contrasts nicely with the warm, fluffy rice.
- Grilled Chicken or Tofu: For some added protein, serve this dish alongside grilled chicken breast or marinated tofu. The smoky flavors will elevate the overall taste and make it feel more substantial.
- Roasted Vegetables: Pair your rice with a side of roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus. The caramelized sweetness of the roasted veggies adds depth to the meal.
- Sautéed Greens: Consider sautéing some spinach or kale with a bit of garlic and olive oil. These greens will not only add a pop of color but also bring a nutritious boost to your plate.
- Beans or Lentils: For a hearty and filling addition, serve the rice with a side of seasoned black beans or lentils. They’re packed with protein and will keep you satisfied for hours!
Feel free to mix and match these suggestions based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. The goal is to create a colorful and balanced plate that you and your loved ones will enjoy!
Call to Action
I’d love to hear how your rice dish turns out! If you give this recipe a try, please leave a comment below and share your thoughts. Did you add any special veggies or spices? How did your family enjoy it? Your feedback not only makes my day, but it also helps others in our cooking community discover new ideas and variations. And hey, if you enjoyed this easy to make recipe, don’t forget to rate it! Your thumbs up encourages me to keep sharing more delicious and simple recipes. Happy cooking, and let’s keep the conversation going!
Print
Easy to Make Recipes: 7 Steps to Fluffy Rice Success
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This recipe is a simple and quick way to make a delicious meal that anyone can enjoy.
Ingredients
- 1 cup of rice
- 2 cups of water
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1 cup of mixed vegetables
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
Instructions
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- In a pot, combine the rice, water, olive oil, and salt.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce heat to low and cover the pot.
- Let it simmer for 18 minutes or until the water is absorbed.
- In the last 5 minutes of cooking, add the mixed vegetables on top without stirring.
- Remove the pot from heat and let it sit covered for another 5 minutes.
- Fluff the rice with a fork, add garlic powder, and serve warm.
Notes
- Use any vegetables you like or have on hand.
- Make sure to rinse the rice to remove excess starch.
- Do not lift the lid while the rice is cooking to keep the steam in.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: International
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: easy to make recipes
