Rice with vegetables

Vegetable Rice - a simple and delicious recipe for summer days

Vegetable rice is a classic, appreciated, and versatile recipe that can be enjoyed at any time of the year, but especially on warm summer days. This recipe is not only delicious and nutritious but also an excellent choice for those who want to enjoy a healthy, vegetarian, or vegan meal. Additionally, vegetable rice is a perfect option for a quick, light lunch that can be easily prepared.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:
- 1 cup of rice (preferably long-grain)
- 1 medium onion
- 1 carrot
- 1 parsnip
- 1 zucchini
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 cup of peas (fresh or frozen)
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil (or sunflower oil)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- A bunch of fresh dill (or other preferred herbs)
- 2-3 tomatoes (optional, for extra freshness)

Preparation of vegetable rice:
1. Start by preparing the vegetables. Peel the onion and chop it finely. The carrot, parsnip, zucchini, and red bell pepper should be diced into small cubes for even cooking. If using fresh peas, ensure they are well washed.

2. In a large skillet or pot, add the 2 tablespoons of oil and heat over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent.

3. Add the carrot, parsnip, and red bell pepper to the skillet. Continue to sauté the vegetables for 5 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent sticking. This step is essential to enhance the flavors.

4. After the vegetables have softened, add the rinsed and drained rice. Mix well to combine the ingredients. This step helps the rice absorb the flavors of the vegetables.

5. Pour in one cup of water, add salt and pepper to taste, and let it boil for 5 minutes. It is important not to cover the skillet at this point so that some of the water evaporates.

6. After 5 minutes, add the two cups of boiling water and stir again. Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Allow the rice to simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the water is completely absorbed and the rice becomes soft and fluffy.

7. Finally, when the rice is ready, turn off the heat and let it sit covered for another 5 minutes. This step will help the rice grains separate better.

8. Before serving, finely chop the fresh dill (or other preferred herbs) and sprinkle it over the rice. If you want an extra touch of freshness, dice the tomatoes and add them on top just before serving.

Useful tips:
- You can experiment with various vegetables depending on the season and your preferences. Green or yellow bell peppers, zucchini, or even mushrooms can add a special touch to your dish.
- If you want to add more protein, you can include cooked chickpeas or lentils at the end.
- This is an excellent recipe for staying healthy and balanced, considering that a serving of vegetable rice contains approximately 200 calories and is rich in vitamins and minerals.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use brown rice?
Yes, but the cooking time will be longer, so make sure to check the instructions on the package.

2. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! Vegetable rice can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and can be easily reheated.

3. What can I serve with vegetable rice?
This recipe pairs perfectly with a yogurt sauce or a fresh salad. You can also serve it alongside a portion of fish or meat for a complete meal.

4. Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, vegetable rice is a vegan recipe, ideal for anyone looking for healthy and delicious options.

In conclusion, vegetable rice is a versatile and healthy dish that will bring you joy and satisfaction at every meal. Try to personalize it to your taste and let your imagination soar. Enjoy your meal!