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Mediterranean Rice Recipe

Lakshman Rao Sarnala
A healthy and flavorful Mediterranean Rice dish made with fresh herbs, spices, and colorful vegetables.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
5 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine Mediterranean Region
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup long-grain white or basmati rice
  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Rinse the Rice:
    Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Set aside.
  • Sauté Aromatics:
    Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant.
  • Add Vegetables:
    Stir in the bell pepper and cherry tomatoes. Cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly softened.
  • Combine Ingredients:
    Add the rinsed rice, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper to the saucepan. Stir well to coat the rice with the spices.
  • Cook the Rice:
    Pour in the broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
  • Rest and Fluff:
    Remove the saucepan from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork.
  • Garnish and Serve:
    Stir in the parsley and olives. Top with crumbled feta cheese if desired. Serve warm.

Notes

For a vegan version, use vegetable broth and skip the feta cheese.
Keyword easy rice recipe, healthy side dish, Mediterranean flavors, Mediterranean rice