Mediterranean Diet Mexican Rice
Savor the best of two worlds with this Mediterranean Diet Mexican Rice—a wholesome, flavor-packed dish that blends the vibrant spices of Mexican cuisine with the health-conscious principles of the Mediterranean diet. Made with nutrient-dense brown rice, heart-healthy extra virgin olive oil, and a medley of colorful vegetables like red bell peppers, onions, and corn, this recipe offers rich flavors and powerful antioxidants. Seasoned with smoky paprika and earthy cumin, and brightened with fresh lime juice and cilantro, it’s a fulfilling, plant-based meal that's perfect as a side dish or a light main course. High in fiber and protein, thanks to black beans and whole grains, this one-pot recipe is ready in under an hour, making it ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep. Elevate your dinner table with this healthy and satisfying alternative to traditional Mexican rice!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 cup brown rice
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup canned diced tomatoes
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 yellow onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 0.5 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Heat the olive oil in a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and red bell pepper. Sauté for 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Add the brown rice to the saucepan, stirring to coat the grains with the oil and vegetables.
Pour in the vegetable broth and canned diced tomatoes, bringing the mixture to a boil.
Stir in the cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let simmer for 30 minutes or until the rice is fully cooked and liquid is absorbed.
Add the black beans and frozen corn to the cooked rice. Stir well to combine.
Remove the saucepan from heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Stir in the fresh cilantro and lime juice before serving.
Serve the Mediterranean Diet Mexican Rice warm, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1254 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 46.9 g | 60% | |
| Saturated Fat | 7.6 g | 38% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 3.5 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 5 mg | 2% | |
| Sodium | 3847 mg | 167% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 185.4 g | 67% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 42.8 g | 153% | |
| Total Sugars | 32.8 g | ||
| Protein | 41.4 g | 83% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 384 mg | 30% | |
| Iron | 15.0 mg | 83% | |
| Potassium | 3172 mg | 67% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
