Mediterranean Tomato Rice
Highlighted under: World Plates
I love making Mediterranean Tomato Rice because it combines vibrant flavors with simplicity. The bright acidity of tomatoes, the fragrant herbs, and the rich, nutty taste of rice create a delightful dish that’s perfect as a side or main course. I've experimented with various seasonings, and I've found that a touch of olive oil and fresh parsley can elevate it to another level. This dish not only pleases the palate, but it also fills the kitchen with an irresistible aroma that invites everyone to the table.
Cooking Mediterranean Tomato Rice is a journey through flavors and aromas. I always start by sautéing garlic and onion, which forms a fragrant base for the dish. Adding diced tomatoes and the right spices helps build a depth of flavor that transports me to the sun-soaked Mediterranean. The trick I learned is to let the rice absorb all the flavors—letting it rest off the heat for a few minutes elevates the dish even further.
What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. Whether I want to serve it alongside grilled chicken or as a vegetarian main dish, it adapts beautifully. Plus, using fresh herbs like basil or parsley right before serving adds a bright finish that completes the meal. Trust me, it's a crowd-pleaser!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Vibrant flavors that awaken your senses
- Simple yet impressive and perfect for gatherings
- Healthy, hearty, and full of fresh ingredients
The Role of Aromatics
Aromatics are essential in developing flavor in Mediterranean Tomato Rice. Sautéing onions until they’re translucent creates a sweet base, while the quick cooking of garlic adds potency without burning, which can introduce bitterness. If you prefer a milder flavor, opt for shallots instead of onions. Just ensure you maintain medium heat to achieve the right sauté without browning too quickly. This balanced blend of aromatics lays a flavorful foundation for the dish.
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a bay leaf during the simmering process. This savory note complements the tomatoes beautifully. Remember to remove the bay leaf before serving, as it’s not meant to be eaten. Experimenting with different herbs, such as thyme or basil, can also add a unique twist, making each batch of this dish a little different.
Cooking Techniques
The technique of rinsing basmati rice is crucial. This step removes surface starch, which helps achieve the fluffy texture you want. If you skip this, your rice may clump together. After rinsing, let it drain well, ensuring no lingering water alters the cooking consistency. You want each grain distinct, soaking up the flavors without becoming mushy.
When combining the rice with broth, make sure you bring the mixture to a rolling boil before covering it. This initial heat helps the rice to cook evenly. Once covered, reduce the heat to low—aim for a gentle simmer, which will prevent burning on the bottom. Keep an eye on the pot; if you see steam escaping, it may need to be covered more tightly.
Ingredients
Gather these fresh ingredients to create a delicious Mediterranean Tomato Rice.
Ingredients
- 1 cup basmati rice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
These ingredients will come together to create a delightful dish filled with Mediterranean flavors.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to prepare your Mediterranean Tomato Rice.
Prepare the Rice
Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and helps prevent it from becoming sticky. Set aside.
Sauté Aromatics
In a medium-sized pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add Tomatoes and Seasonings
Pour in the canned diced tomatoes, including their juice, and stir in oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let this mixture simmer for about 5 minutes.
Combine Rice and Broth
Add the rinsed rice and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir to combine, then bring to a boil. Once boiling, cover the pot, reduce the heat to low, and simmer for 20 minutes.
Fluff and Serve
After 20 minutes, remove the pot from heat and let it sit, covered, for another 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Enjoy your Mediterranean Tomato Rice as a side dish or a light main course!
Pro Tips
- For added flavor, you can squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the rice before serving. Adding in some olives or capers can also provide a delightful briny contrast.
Serving Suggestions
Mediterranean Tomato Rice is wonderfully versatile. Serve it as a side to grilled chicken or fish, allowing the light, tangy flavors to enhance the main dish. Alternatively, it can easily stand alone as a vegetarian main course, especially with the addition of beans like chickpeas or lentils for extra protein. I also enjoy adding steamed vegetables like spinach or zucchini to the dish just before serving for some added nutrition.
For serving, consider drizzling a little extra virgin olive oil on top before garnishing with fresh parsley. This not only adds richness but enhances the visual appeal. A squeeze of lemon over the top can brighten the dish further and balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Leftover Mediterranean Tomato Rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, simply add a splash of vegetable broth or water to prevent dryness and warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave. This dish also freezes well; portions can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for the best texture.
If you plan to make this dish ahead of time for gatherings, consider preparing the rice and sauce separately. Store them in the fridge and combine just before serving. This keeps the rice fluffy and prevents it from becoming overly saturated with moisture from the sauce.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use brown rice instead?
Yes, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time. Brown rice typically takes longer to cook, around 45-50 minutes.
→ Is there a vegetarian option for the broth?
Absolutely! Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.
→ Can this dish be made ahead of time?
Yes! Cooked rice can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove with a little broth or water to moisten.
→ What can I serve with Mediterranean Tomato Rice?
It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad!
Mediterranean Tomato Rice
I love making Mediterranean Tomato Rice because it combines vibrant flavors with simplicity. The bright acidity of tomatoes, the fragrant herbs, and the rich, nutty taste of rice create a delightful dish that’s perfect as a side or main course. I've experimented with various seasonings, and I've found that a touch of olive oil and fresh parsley can elevate it to another level. This dish not only pleases the palate, but it also fills the kitchen with an irresistible aroma that invites everyone to the table.
Created by: Erin Wallace
Recipe Type: World Plates
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 cup basmati rice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
How-To Steps
Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and helps prevent it from becoming sticky. Set aside.
In a medium-sized pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Pour in the canned diced tomatoes, including their juice, and stir in oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let this mixture simmer for about 5 minutes.
Add the rinsed rice and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir to combine, then bring to a boil. Once boiling, cover the pot, reduce the heat to low, and simmer for 20 minutes.
After 20 minutes, remove the pot from heat and let it sit, covered, for another 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Extra Tips
- For added flavor, you can squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the rice before serving. Adding in some olives or capers can also provide a delightful briny contrast.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 230 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 220mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 35g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 4g