Description

A comforting, creamy vegetable rice dish that is perfect for meal prep. This simple recipe uses toasted rice, milk, and vegetables to create a hearty, gluten-free lunch that reheats beautifully.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups long-grain white rice (basmati or jasmine)
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 medium yellow onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup whole milk
2 cups vegetable broth (low-sodium)
2 cups frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, green beans)
1 tsp salt
½ tsp pepper
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
Heat butter in a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent.
Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Add the rinsed rice to the pot and stir for 2 minutes to toast the grains and coat them in butter.
Pour in the vegetable broth and milk. Stir to combine and add salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Reduce heat to low, cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 15-18 minutes without lifting the lid.
After 15 minutes, check if rice is tender. If so, add frozen vegetables, stir, cover, and cook for another 5 minutes.
Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes to allow the rice to absorb remaining liquid.
Uncover and fluff the rice with a fork. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding Parmesan cheese if desired.
Serve warm or store in airtight containers for meal prep.

Notes

Always rinse the rice to prevent gumminess. Do not lift the lid while simmering to ensure even cooking. If using brown rice, increase liquid to 2.5 cups broth and cook for 40-45 minutes. This recipe freezes well for up to 3 months. Reheat with a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 350
Sugar: 6
Sodium: 600
Fat: 12
Saturated Fat: 7
Carbohydrates: 50
Fiber: 4
Protein: 8

Keywords: meal prep, creamy rice, vegetable rice, gluten-free, easy dinner, lunch formula, one-pot meal, healthy lunch