Fragrant Rice Bake
Looking for a hearty, flavourful dish that’s both satisfying and versatile? This Fragrant Rice Bake is the perfect choice! With a base of Spanish-style rice, brown rice, and a medley of fresh veggies, chickpeas, and kalamata olives, this bake is full of delicious Mediterranean-inspired flavours. Whether you keep it vegetarian or add a protein like chicken or tuna, this easy one-pan meal will become a family favourite.
Ingredients
- 2 Lifestyle Food Spanish-Style Rice Cups
- 2 Lifestyle Food Brown Rice Cups
- 1 cup cubed zucchini
- ½ cup sliced peppers
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1 cup canned chickpeas (drained and washed)
- ½ cup kalamata olives
- 2 cups vegetable stock
- ⅓ cup corn starch (mixed with water to make a paste)
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
To Serve:
- Pesto
- Creamed cheese
- Fresh herbs
Optional Add-ins:
- Chicken breast
- Salami
- Canned tuna
Method:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- In a large baking dish, add the rice, veggies (zucchini, peppers, cherry tomatoes), chickpeas, olives, and vegetable stock. Stir everything together.
- Bake for 15 minutes, or until the veggies are tender.
- Mix the cornstarch with a bit of water to make a paste. Stir it into the rice mixture along with the soy sauce. Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes, until the rice is cooked through and golden on top.
- Once the rice bake is cooked, top with a dollop of creamed cheese, a drizzle of pesto, and some fresh herbs for an added burst of flavour.
This Fragrant Rice Bake is a vibrant, comforting dish full of Mediterranean flavours. The tender rice, paired with fresh veggies and chickpeas, makes for a filling and nutritious meal. Plus, it’s super customisable—add your favourite proteins or make it entirely vegetarian.
It’s perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or a quick weeknight meal!
