Bell Pepper & Parsley Rice Recipe
Overview
This vibrant and flavorful Bell Pepper & Parsley Rice combines the richness of sautéed garlic, onions, and rosemary with the freshness of bell peppers in three striking colors. The rice is pressure-cooked to perfection, allowing each grain to be light and fluffy. Topped with pan-roasted bell peppers and fresh parsley, this dish is a perfect vegetarian main course that pairs beautifully with any grilled or roasted proteins. Ideal for a family dinner or a festive gathering, this recipe will impress with its color, flavor, and simplicity.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 2 teaspoons + 1 tablespoon |
| Garlic, finely chopped | 4 cloves |
| Onion, thinly sliced | 1 medium |
| Salt | To taste |
| Dried Rosemary | 1 teaspoon |
| Rice (washed and soaked) | 1 cup |
| Red Chilli Flakes | 1 teaspoon |
| Green Bell Pepper (Capsicum), finely chopped | 1/3 cup |
| Mixed Herbs (Dried) | 2 teaspoons |
| Red Bell Pepper (Capsicum), finely chopped | 1/3 cup |
| Yellow Bell Pepper (Capsicum), finely chopped | 1/3 cup |
| Parsley Leaves, chopped | As required |
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Continental
Course: Main Course
Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions
-
Cooking the Rice:
Begin by heating 2 teaspoons of extra virgin olive oil in a pressure cooker over medium flame. Once the oil is warm, add the finely chopped garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Add the thinly sliced onions to the pot, and sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until they become translucent and soft. -
Flavored Rice:
To the onions and garlic, add a pinch of salt and the dried rosemary. Stir in the washed and soaked rice, followed by 2 cups of water. Close the lid of the pressure cooker and cook for 2 whistles. Once done, turn off the heat and allow the pressure to release naturally. After the pressure has released, open the cooker and fluff the rice gently with a fork. Spread the rice on a platter to cool and allow the grains to separate. -
Pan-Roasting the Peppers:
While the rice is cooling, heat 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the red chilli flakes and the chopped bell peppers—green, red, and yellow. Sprinkle with salt to taste. Sauté the peppers for 4-5 minutes until they are tender but still crisp. The peppers should have a slight bite to them, retaining their vibrant colors. -
Combining the Rice and Peppers:
Once the bell peppers are sautéed, add the mixed dried herbs and stir to combine. Turn off the heat. Now, carefully add the sautéed peppers and herbs on top of the cooked rice. Add the chopped fresh parsley and gently toss the mixture using a fork and spoon. This helps combine the rice and vegetables evenly, while keeping the rice fluffy. -
Serving:
Transfer the bell pepper and parsley rice to a serving platter. This dish can be served immediately as a colorful, aromatic main course or paired with other dishes such as Herbed Vegetables in Roasted Bell Pepper Sauce, Roasted Chicken Curry in Spinach Parmesan Sauce, or creamy sides like Garlic Mashed Potatoes. For dessert, enjoy a light and refreshing Strawberry Coconut Trifle Pudding to complete your meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 240 kcal |
| Protein | 5 g |
| Carbohydrates | 35 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Fat | 10 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1 g |
| Sodium | 450 mg |
| Potassium | 320 mg |
| Vitamin A | 25% DV |
| Vitamin C | 80% DV |
| Iron | 8% DV |
Tips & Variations
- Herb Variation: If you prefer a more aromatic rice, you can swap the rosemary for thyme or basil for a unique flavor profile.
- Add Protein: To turn this into a more substantial meal, consider adding sautéed mushrooms, tofu, or grilled chicken on top of the rice.
- Spice It Up: For a spicier kick, increase the amount of red chili flakes or add fresh green chilies to the sauté.
- Vegan Option: This dish is naturally vegan. Ensure that any side dishes or accompaniments are vegan if you’re aiming for a fully plant-based meal.
Serving Suggestions:
Bell Pepper & Parsley Rice pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. For a complete vegetarian meal, serve it alongside a fresh salad or roasted vegetables. If you’re serving it with protein, try pairing it with grilled tofu, chicken, or even a hearty curry for an exquisite fusion meal.
This dish is as delightful to the eye as it is to the palate. The colorful bell peppers and fragrant rice create a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Whether for a family dinner or a special occasion, Bell Pepper & Parsley Rice will always be a crowd-pleaser!
