Rice lovers, rejoice! These 25 Healthy Rice Recipes are a vibrant celebration of flavor, texture, and nourishment. From fluffy jasmine rice to nutty brown varieties, each dish is a perfect balance of wholesome ingredients and bold spices.
In just 10 minutes of prep and 30 minutes of cooking, you can create meals that are as satisfying as they are nutritious. Think creamy coconut-infused rice, zesty lemon herb blends, and hearty veggie-packed bowls—each bite is a delightful adventure for your taste buds.
Whether you’re craving something light and refreshing or rich and comforting, these recipes have you covered. The crisp crunch of fresh vegetables, the silky smoothness of perfectly cooked grains, and the aromatic warmth of spices come together effortlessly.
With minimal effort and maximum flavor, these dishes are perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekend meals. Dive in and let rice take center stage in your kitchen!
Fresh & Flavorful Ingredients
- 4 cups cooked long grain white, brown, or wild rice (cooled slightly)
- 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil (for cooking)
- 1 bunch scallions, white and green parts, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ⅓ cup toasted, chopped pistachios (substitute with almonds or walnuts)
- ½ cup chopped parsley (flat-leaf or curly)
- ½ cup pomegranate arils (optional, for a pop of color and sweetness)
- ⅓ cup fresh mint leaves (torn or chopped)
- Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- Roasted chickpeas (optional, for added crunch)
- Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar (substitute with apple cider vinegar)
- 1 tablespoon fresh orange juice, plus 1 teaspoon zest
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon maple syrup (or honey)
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon ground coriander
- ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
Simple Step-by-Step Instructions
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, orange juice, zest, lemon juice, maple syrup, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, salt, and a pinch of pepper. Set aside.
- Cook the aromatics: Heat the 2 teaspoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the scallions, garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook for 1 minute until softened and fragrant.
- Warm the rice: Reduce the heat to low and add the cooked rice. Use the back of a wooden spoon to break up any clumps. Heat until warmed through, about 2-3 minutes.
- Combine everything: Turn off the heat and stir in the dressing, pistachios, parsley, and pomegranate arils. Mix well to coat the rice evenly.
- Finish and serve: Top with fresh mint leaves and roasted chickpeas (if using). Season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Creative Toppings and Add-Ins
Elevate your rice dish with fun and flavorful toppings! Try adding crumbled feta for a tangy kick, toasted almonds for extra crunch, or dried cranberries for a sweet twist. For a protein boost, toss in grilled chicken or pan-seared tofu. The possibilities are endless!
Perfect Pairings for Serving
This versatile rice dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Serve it alongside grilled vegetables, a fresh green salad, or warm pita bread. For a heartier meal, pair it with roasted salmon or lamb kebabs. It’s also a great standalone dish for a light lunch or dinner.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, sprinkle a little water over the rice and warm it in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Avoid microwaving to keep the texture intact. Add fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving to revive the flavors.
Quick Time-Saving Hacks
Short on time? Use pre-cooked rice from the store or a rice cooker to cut down on prep. Pre-chopped scallions, garlic, and parsley can also save you a few minutes. For the dressing, mix it up in a jar and shake it—no whisking required!
Recipe Variations to Try
Switch up the grains by using quinoa, farro, or couscous instead of rice. For a nut-free option, swap pistachios with sunflower seeds or toasted pepitas. If pomegranates aren’t in season, try diced mango or chopped apples for a fruity twist.
25 Healthy Rice Recipes
Ingredients
- 4 cups cooked long grain white, brown, or wild rice
- 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 bunch scallions, white and green parts, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ⅓ cup toasted, chopped pistachios
- ½ cup chopped parsley
- ½ cup pomegranate arils
- ⅓ cup fresh mint leaves
- Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
- Roasted Chickpeas, optional
Dressing
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon fresh orange juice, plus 1 teaspoon zest
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon maple syrup
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon ground coriander
- ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, orange juice, zest, lemon juice, maple syrup, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, salt, and a pinch of pepper. Set aside.
- Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the scallions, garlic, pinches of salt, and pepper and cook for 1 minute until soft. Reduce heat to low and add the cooked rice, using the back of a wooden spoon to break up any clumps. Heat until warmed through.
- Turn off the heat and stir in the dressing, pistachios, parsley, and pomegranates. Top with mint leaves and roasted chickpeas, if using. Season to taste and serve.