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Flavorful Mexican Rice Recipe with Fresh Veggies

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A simple and vibrant Mexican rice recipe with fresh vegetables and mild heat, perfect for beginners and busy weeknights. This dish offers a comforting, smoky flavor with a fresh lime finish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups (270g) long-grain white rice
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 small zucchini, diced
  • ½ cup (120ml) tomato sauce
  • 3 cups (720ml) vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon cumin
  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Rinse the rice under cold running water until the water runs clear, then drain for 2-3 minutes.
  2. Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan or deep skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
  3. Add chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.
  4. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, avoiding browning.
  5. Add drained rice and stir frequently for 3-4 minutes until slightly golden.
  6. Add diced red bell pepper and zucchini; cook for 2-3 minutes to soften slightly but keep some crunch.
  7. Stir in tomato sauce, smoked paprika, and cumin until evenly combined.
  8. Pour in vegetable broth and season with salt and pepper (start with ½ teaspoon salt). Bring to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
  9. Reduce heat to low, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 18-20 minutes without lifting the lid.
  10. Turn off heat and let the rice rest covered for 5-7 minutes.
  11. Remove lid, fluff rice with a fork, then stir in chopped cilantro and lime juice. Adjust seasoning if needed.

Notes

Rinsing the rice removes excess starch for fluffier texture. Toasting the rice before simmering adds a nutty flavor and prevents clumping. Keep broth hot before adding to rice to avoid sogginess. Do not lift lid while cooking to keep steam trapped. If rice is wet after cooking, let it rest covered off heat a few more minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: Mexican rice, fresh veggies, easy recipe, mild heat, beginner friendly, quick dinner, vegetarian, gluten-free

Find it online: https://bitematrix.com/flavorful-mexican-rice-recipe-with-fresh-veggies-easy-and-perfect-for-beginners/