Mediterranean Rice And Beans (Print-Friendly Version)

Rice and beans with lemon, herbs, and veggies for a fresh Mediterranean twist.

# What You'll Need:

→ Main Ingredients

01 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
02 - 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
03 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 1 red bell pepper, diced
05 - 1 medium tomato, diced
06 - 1 teaspoon ground cumin
07 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
08 - 1 teaspoon dried oregano
09 - 1 cup long grain white rice, uncooked
10 - 2 cups vegetable broth or water
11 - 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas or cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
12 - 2 cups fresh spinach or kale, roughly chopped
13 - 1 tablespoon lemon juice, plus more to taste
14 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or mint
15 - Salt and pepper to taste

→ Optional Toppings

16 - Crumbled feta
17 - Olives
18 - Tahini drizzle

# How to Make It:

01 - In a large skillet or pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant.
02 - Add diced red bell pepper and tomato. Sprinkle in cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until vegetables begin to soften.
03 - Stir in uncooked rice to coat with the spices. Pour in vegetable broth or water, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15 to 20 minutes until the rice is tender.
04 - Stir in the drained chickpeas or beans and fresh spinach or kale. Cover and cook for a few minutes until the greens are wilted and heated through.
05 - Squeeze in lemon juice and drizzle with olive oil. Top with chopped fresh herbs. Add crumbled feta, olives, or tahini drizzle if desired before serving.

# Additional Tips:

01 - You can substitute quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb variation.
02 - Black beans or lentils can replace chickpeas based on preference.
03 - Omit cheese to keep the dish fully vegan-friendly.
04 - Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage.