Description
A warm, one-pot meal combining lemon, herbs, and hearty beans for a comforting yet vibrant dish.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 medium tomato, diced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 cup long grain white rice, uncooked
- 2 cups vegetable broth or water
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas or cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale, roughly chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice, plus more to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or mint
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: crumbled feta, olives, tahini drizzle
Instructions
- Prepare and measure everything first. Rinse the rice under cold water until clear, drain the beans, and chop the herbs and vegetables.
- Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until translucent.
- Add the garlic, bell pepper, and tomato. Cook until the garlic is fragrant and the tomato softens.
- Stir in the cumin, paprika, and oregano, toasting for 30–45 seconds.
- Add the rinsed rice, coat in the mixture, then pour in broth or water and bring to a boil.
- Stir in the drained beans, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15–18 minutes until rice is tender.
- Fold in the greens until wilted, then stir in lemon juice and fresh herbs. Season to taste.
- Fluff the rice with a fork, serve in bowls, and add optional toppings.
Notes
For best results, rinse the rice well and do not lift the lid during simmering. This dish can be easily stored and reheated for leftovers.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Mediterranean, rice, beans, vegan, one-pot meal, healthy, quick dinner