Easy Mediterranean Rice & Beans: Vegetarian Delight
This Mediterranean Rice and Beans recipe is a wholesome, flavorful dish that combines tender rice with hearty beans and vibrant Mediterranean spices. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep, it’s both nutritious and satisfying.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 30
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 1 can (15 oz) beans of your choice, drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped for garnish
- Optional: cherry tomatoes or olives for extra flavor
Instructions
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain and set aside.
- Drain and rinse the beans. Chop the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper. Slice cherry tomatoes or olives if using.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion for 3–4 minutes until soft.
- Add garlic and red bell pepper; cook for 2–3 minutes while stirring.
- Stir in smoked paprika, cumin, and oregano, cooking for 1 minute to release aromas.
- Add rice to the skillet and stir to coat with spices and vegetables. Toast lightly for 1–2 minutes.
- Pour in broth and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15 minutes.
- Gently stir in beans, cover again, and cook for an additional 5–7 minutes until rice is tender.
- Remove from heat and let sit covered for 5 minutes.
- Fluff rice with a fork and season with salt and black pepper.
- Garnish with parsley or cilantro and optional cherry tomatoes or olives before serving.
Notes
Customize with roasted vegetables, turkey bacon, or a squeeze of lemon for extra flavor.
For a creamier texture, stir in a small amount of olive oil or vegan butter after cooking.
Adjust spices to suit your taste preferences.