20 Delicious Mediterranean Rice Recipes Healthy

Dive into the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with our roundup of 20 Delicious Mediterranean Rice Recipes that promise to bring a healthy twist to your dinner table. Whether you’re craving something light and refreshing or hearty and comforting, these dishes are your ticket to a culinary adventure. Perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends, let’s make every meal a celebration of taste and wellness. Keep reading to discover your next favorite recipe!

Mediterranean Lemon Herb Rice

Brighten up your dinner table with this vibrant Mediterranean Lemon Herb Rice, a dish that’s as flavorful as it is colorful.

Ingredients

• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes.
2. Stir in the minced garlic, 1 tsp dried oregano, and 1 tsp dried thyme, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add the rice to the saucepan, stirring to coat the grains in the oil and herb mixture. Toast the rice for 2 minutes.
4. Pour in 2 cups of chicken or vegetable broth, the zest and juice of 1 lemon, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork and stir in 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley before serving.

The zest of lemon and fresh parsley not only add a burst of flavor but also give this rice its signature Mediterranean brightness.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, toast the rice a minute longer until it starts to smell nutty before adding the broth.

Greek Style Spinach and Rice

Bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your table with this comforting Greek Style Spinach and Rice, a dish that’s as nutritious as it is flavorful.

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp lemon juice

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until soft, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in the rice, coating it well with the oil and onion mixture, and cook for 2 minutes.
3. Add the spinach, dill, and parsley, stirring until the spinach wilts, about 3 minutes.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth, season with salt and pepper, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
5. Remove from heat, drizzle with lemon juice, and let stand covered for 5 minutes before serving.

The fresh herbs and lemon juice in this dish create a bright, aromatic flavor that’s perfectly balanced with the earthiness of the spinach.

Tip: For an extra touch of Greek flavor, sprinkle some crumbled feta cheese on top before serving.

One Pot Mediterranean Chicken and Rice

Imagine coming home to a dish that’s bursting with the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean, all made in one pot for easy cleanup. This One Pot Mediterranean Chicken and Rice is your ticket to a flavorful, fuss-free dinner.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/4 cup sliced Kalamata olives
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp minced garlic
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken thighs and cook for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in rice, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes.
4. Return chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the rice. Cover and cook for an additional 10 minutes, or until rice is tender and chicken is cooked through.
5. Remove from heat. Sprinkle with Kalamata olives and feta cheese before serving.

The magic of this dish lies in the way the rice absorbs all the Mediterranean flavors, creating a perfectly seasoned base for the juicy chicken. It’s a one-pot wonder that feels like a vacation in every bite.

Tip: For an extra burst of freshness, garnish with chopped parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.

Mediterranean Rice Pilaf with Pine Nuts

Bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your table with this fragrant and nutty rice pilaf, a perfect side that steals the show with its golden pine nuts and aromatic spices.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice
• 2 1/2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/3 cup pine nuts
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground allspice
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add pine nuts and toast, stirring frequently, until golden, about 3 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add the onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic, cumin, cinnamon, allspice, salt, and black pepper, and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add rice to the skillet and stir to coat with the spices. Pour in broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
4. Remove from heat, let stand covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork. Stir in toasted pine nuts and parsley before serving.

The toasty pine nuts and warm spices create a symphony of flavors and textures that make this pilaf a standout side dish for any Mediterranean-inspired meal.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, toast the pine nuts in a dry skillet first, then proceed with the recipe as directed.

Tomato Basil Mediterranean Rice

Bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your table with this vibrant Tomato Basil Mediterranean Rice, a dish that’s as colorful as it is flavorful.

Ingredients

• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups water
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add 1 cup of rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18 minutes until water is absorbed and rice is tender.
2. While rice cooks, heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing for 3 minutes until softened.
3. Add the cherry tomatoes, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, and 1/2 tsp dried oregano to the skillet. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tomatoes soften.
4. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and gently fold in the tomato mixture and 1/4 cup chopped basil until well combined.

The fresh basil and juicy tomatoes meld beautifully with the fluffy rice, creating a dish that’s bursting with freshness and perfect for a light lunch or side.

Tip: For an extra touch of Mediterranean flair, sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese before serving.

Mediterranean Rice Salad with Feta and Olives

Brighten up your meal prep with this vibrant Mediterranean Rice Salad, packed with tangy feta, briny olives, and fresh herbs for a refreshing twist on the usual grain bowl.

Ingredients

• 1 cup uncooked basmati rice
• 2 cups water
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/2 cup kalamata olives, pitted and halved
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint

Instructions

1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and 2 cups water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and let cool to room temperature.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add the cooled rice, crumbled feta cheese, kalamata olives, chopped parsley, and chopped mint to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss to combine all ingredients evenly.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld together before serving.

The combination of creamy feta and zesty lemon dressing against the hearty rice and fresh herbs creates a salad that’s as satisfying as it is colorful.

Tip: For an extra crunch, sprinkle some toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds on top before serving.

Garlic Butter Mediterranean Rice

This Garlic Butter Mediterranean Rice is a fragrant, flavorful side dish that brings a touch of the Mediterranean to your table with minimal effort.

Ingredients

• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp dried oregano
• 1/4 tsp dried thyme
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tbsp lemon juice

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, melt 3 tbsp unsalted butter over medium heat. Add 4 cloves minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Add 1 cup long-grain white rice to the saucepan and stir to coat the rice in the garlic butter. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Pour in 2 cups chicken broth, then add 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, 1/4 tsp dried oregano, and 1/4 tsp dried thyme. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
5. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Then, fluff the rice with a fork and stir in 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley and 1 tbsp lemon juice.

The magic of this dish lies in the aromatic garlic butter that infuses every grain of rice, complemented by the bright finish of lemon and parsley.

Tip: For an extra touch of Mediterranean flair, stir in a handful of chopped kalamata olives or crumbled feta cheese before serving.

Mediterranean Rice with Artichokes and Peas

Bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your table with this vibrant and hearty rice dish, packed with artichokes and peas for a delightful texture and flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and quartered
• 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
• 2 1/2 cups vegetable broth
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until soft, about 3 minutes.
2. Stir in the rice, coating it with the oil and onion mixture, and cook for 2 minutes until slightly toasted.
3. Add the artichoke hearts, peas, vegetable broth, salt, pepper, and oregano. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
4. Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork and stir in the fresh parsley.
5. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the top.

The bright acidity of the lemon wedges cuts through the richness of the artichokes and peas, creating a perfectly balanced dish that’s as beautiful as it is tasty.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, toast the rice in the skillet until it’s golden before adding the liquid.

Spicy Mediterranean Rice with Chorizo

Spice up your weeknight dinner with this Spicy Mediterranean Rice with Chorizo, a dish that brings together bold flavors and simple cooking techniques for a meal that’s anything but ordinary.

Ingredients

• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 lb chorizo, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chorizo and cook until lightly browned, about 5 minutes. Remove chorizo and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add onion, garlic, and red bell pepper. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in rice, smoked paprika, ground cumin, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 2 minutes until the rice is lightly toasted.
4. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
5. Return the chorizo to the skillet, stir to combine, and cook for an additional 2 minutes to heat through. Season with salt to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

The smoky chorizo and spicy cayenne pepper create a depth of flavor that’s perfectly balanced by the sweetness of the red bell pepper, making every bite a delightful surprise.

Tip: For an extra kick, add a pinch more cayenne pepper or serve with a side of hot sauce.

Mediterranean Rice Stuffed Peppers

These Mediterranean Rice Stuffed Peppers are a vibrant, flavor-packed dish that brings a taste of the sunny Mediterranean to your dinner table. Perfect for a wholesome weeknight meal!

Ingredients

• 4 large bell peppers, any color
• 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped Kalamata olives
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Add the rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18 minutes until the rice is tender and the broth is absorbed.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in the cooked rice, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
4. Remove the skillet from heat and fold in the feta cheese, Kalamata olives, and fresh parsley.
5. Spoon the rice mixture into the prepared bell peppers. Place them in a baking dish and cover with foil.
6. Bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the peppers are tender.

The combination of tangy feta and briny olives with the sweet bell peppers creates a delightful contrast that’s sure to impress. Serve with a sprinkle of extra parsley for a fresh finish.

Tip: For a heartier version, add cooked ground lamb or turkey to the rice mixture before stuffing the peppers.

Seafood Paella Mediterranean Style

Bring the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean to your table with this Seafood Paella, a dish that’s as colorful as it is delicious.

Ingredients

• 2 cups short-grain rice (like Arborio)
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup dry white wine
• 1 lb mixed seafood (shrimp, mussels, and squid)
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 tomato, diced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp saffron threads
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large paella pan over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and red bell pepper, sautéing until soft, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in tomato, smoked paprika, saffron, salt, and black pepper, cooking for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add rice, stirring to coat with the mixture, then pour in chicken broth and white wine. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 15 minutes, without stirring.
4. Arrange mixed seafood on top of the rice, pressing lightly into the mixture. Cover and cook for another 10 minutes, or until seafood is cooked through and rice is tender.
5. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side.

The magic of this paella lies in the socarrat—the crispy bottom layer of rice that adds a delightful texture contrast to the tender seafood and fluffy rice above.

Tip: For the best socarrat, listen for a slight crackling sound from the pan during the last few minutes of cooking—it’s the sound of perfection.

Mediterranean Rice and Lentil Soup

Warm up with a bowl of this hearty Mediterranean Rice and Lentil Soup, a comforting blend of flavors that’s both nutritious and satisfying.

Ingredients

• 1 cup brown lentils, rinsed
• 1/2 cup long-grain white rice
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in 3 cloves minced garlic, 1 tsp ground cumin, and 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add 1 cup rinsed brown lentils, 1/2 cup white rice, 6 cups vegetable broth, and 1 bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25 minutes.
4. Remove the bay leaf and stir in 2 tbsp lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley.

The magic of this soup lies in the smoky depth of paprika paired with the bright zing of lemon, creating a balance that’s irresistibly comforting.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, toast the cumin and smoked paprika in a dry pan before adding them to the soup.

Roasted Vegetable Mediterranean Rice Bowl

Dive into the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with this Roasted Vegetable Mediterranean Rice Bowl, a colorful and nutritious dish that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.

Ingredients

• 1 cup basmati rice
• 2 cups water
• 1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 small red onion, sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then combine with 2 cups of water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes.
2. While the rice cooks, toss the zucchini, red bell pepper, red onion, and cherry tomatoes with 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1 tsp dried oregano, and 1/2 tsp garlic powder on a baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.
3. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and divide among bowls. Top with the roasted vegetables, then sprinkle with 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese and 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley.

The magic of this dish lies in the contrast between the fluffy, aromatic basmati rice and the sweet, smoky roasted vegetables, brought together with a sprinkle of tangy feta and fresh parsley.

Tip: For an extra burst of flavor, drizzle with a little lemon juice or balsamic glaze before serving.

Mediterranean Rice with Grilled Halloumi

Bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your table with this vibrant rice dish, topped with golden, grilled halloumi for a satisfying crunch.

Ingredients

• 1 cup basmati rice, rinsed
• 1 3/4 cups water
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, sliced
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 8 oz halloumi cheese, sliced into 1/2-inch pieces

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until soft, about 3 minutes.
2. Stir in the cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the rinsed basmati rice and water, bringing to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until the rice is tender and water is absorbed.
4. While the rice cooks, heat a grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill the halloumi slices for 2 minutes per side until grill marks appear and the cheese is slightly softened.
5. Fluff the rice with a fork and gently fold in the cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and fresh parsley.
6. Serve the rice topped with grilled halloumi slices.

The contrast of the fluffy, spiced rice with the salty, crispy halloumi creates a dish that’s as delightful to eat as it is to look at.

Tip: For an extra burst of flavor, drizzle the finished dish with a little lemon juice or balsamic glaze.

Saffron Infused Mediterranean Rice

Bring a touch of the Mediterranean to your table with this aromatic Saffron Infused Mediterranean Rice, a dish that’s as vibrant in flavor as it is in color.

Ingredients

• 2 cups basmati rice
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/2 tsp saffron threads, soaked in 2 tbsp warm water
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 cup frozen peas
• 1/4 cup slivered almonds, toasted
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the basmati rice to the pot, stirring to coat the grains with oil. Toast the rice for 2 minutes until slightly golden.
3. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, then add the soaked saffron along with its water, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
4. After 15 minutes, sprinkle the frozen peas over the rice, cover again, and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and let the rice sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Then, fluff with a fork, mix in the toasted almonds and fresh parsley.

The saffron not only imparts a golden hue but also a subtle floral aroma that elevates this rice dish to something truly special.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, toast the slivered almonds in a dry pan over medium heat until golden, about 2 minutes, before adding them to the rice.

Mediterranean Rice with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Basil

Bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your table with this vibrant and flavorful rice dish, packed with sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil.

Ingredients

• 1 cup basmati rice
• 2 cups water
• 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 clove garlic, minced

Instructions

1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then drain.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the rinsed rice to the saucepan and stir to coat with the oil and garlic. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Pour in the water, add the salt and black pepper, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
5. Remove the saucepan from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Then, fluff the rice with a fork.
6. Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil until well combined.

The sun-dried tomatoes add a sweet and tangy depth to the rice, while the fresh basil brings a bright, herbal note that makes this dish irresistibly fresh.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, toast the rice in the olive oil until lightly golden before adding the water.

Herbed Mediterranean Rice with Grilled Lamb

Bring the flavors of the Mediterranean to your table with this Herbed Mediterranean Rice paired with succulent Grilled Lamb, a dish that’s as vibrant as it is satisfying.

Ingredients

• 1 cup basmati rice
• 2 cups water
• 1 lb lamb chops
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
• 1 lemon, juiced

Instructions

1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a medium pot, bring 2 cups of water to a boil, add the rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
2. While the rice cooks, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Rub the lamb chops with 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1 tsp dried thyme, and 1/2 tsp garlic powder.
3. Grill the lamb chops for 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or until desired doneness is achieved.
4. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and stir in the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil, 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint, and the juice of 1 lemon.
5. Serve the herbed rice alongside the grilled lamb chops for a dish that’s bursting with fresh flavors and aromatic herbs.

The combination of fresh herbs and lemon juice in the rice perfectly complements the savory, spiced lamb, creating a balanced and flavorful meal that’s sure to impress.

Tip: Let the lamb chops rest for 5 minutes after grilling to ensure they’re juicy and tender when served.

Mediterranean Rice and Chickpea Stew

Warm up your kitchen with this hearty Mediterranean Rice and Chickpea Stew, a comforting bowl that’s packed with flavor and easy to whip up on a busy weeknight.

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 3 cups vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 lemon, juiced

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in the garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add the rice, chickpeas, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped parsley and lemon juice. Let sit for 5 minutes before serving.

The lemon juice and fresh parsley brighten up the rich, smoky flavors of this stew, making it a refreshing yet hearty meal.

Tip: For an extra touch of Mediterranean flair, serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of feta cheese on top.

Lemon Garlic Mediterranean Rice with Shrimp

Brighten up your dinner table with this Lemon Garlic Mediterranean Rice with Shrimp, a dish that’s as vibrant in flavor as it is simple to prepare.

Ingredients

• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

1. In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, heat the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in the rice, lemon zest, remaining 1/2 tsp salt, remaining 1/4 tsp black pepper, and oregano. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring frequently.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
5. Return the shrimp to the skillet. Add the lemon juice and parsley, stirring gently to combine. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to heat through.

The zest of lemon and the freshness of parsley elevate this dish, making it a refreshing yet hearty meal that’s perfect for any season.

Tip: For an extra burst of flavor, serve with additional lemon wedges on the side.

Mediterranean Rice with Eggplant and Mint

Bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your table with this vibrant and aromatic rice dish, featuring tender eggplant and fresh mint for a refreshing twist.

Ingredients

• 1 cup basmati rice
• 1 medium eggplant, diced into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 3/4 cups vegetable broth
• 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then drain and set aside.
2. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced eggplant and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned.
3. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking for another 3 minutes until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in 1 tsp ground cumin, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, and 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
5. Add the rinsed rice to the skillet, stirring to coat with the spices. Pour in 1 3/4 cups vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
7. Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork, then stir in 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

The combination of smoky spices and fresh mint gives this dish a unique flavor profile that’s both comforting and invigorating.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, toast the rice in the skillet for a minute before adding the broth to enhance its nutty aroma.

Conclusion

We hope this roundup of 20 Delicious Mediterranean Rice Recipes inspires your next healthy meal! Each dish is a testament to the vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients the Mediterranean diet is known for. Don’t forget to try your favorites, share your thoughts in the comments, and pin this article to your Pinterest board for easy access. Happy cooking!