The flavors of the Mediterranean – warm, inviting, and full of life. When it comes to cooking, few cuisines evoke such a sense of comfort and joy as those found along the Mediterranean coast. And at the heart of many of these dishes is a humble grain: rice. In this article, we’ll explore 18 flavorful Mediterranean rice recipes that will transport your taste buds to the sun-kissed shores of Greece, Turkey, Spain, and more. From classic pilafs to creative twists on traditional dishes, each recipe offers a new way to experience the rich flavors and aromas of the Mediterranean. Whether you’re looking for a hearty one-pot meal or a light and refreshing side dish, we’ve got you covered.
Lemon Garlic Mediterranean Rice with Herbs
This vibrant rice dish combines the bright flavors of lemon and garlic with the warmth of Mediterranean herbs, perfect for a quick and satisfying side or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
4. Add the rice to the saucepan and stir to coat with the oil and mixture of onions and garlic.
5. Add the water, lemon juice, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
6. Fluff with a fork and garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Mediterranean Rice Pilaf with Pine Nuts and Raisins
Savor the flavors of the Mediterranean with this aromatic pilaf, bursting with toasted pine nuts and sweet raisins.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts
– 1/4 cup golden raisins
– Salt to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the rice and stir to coat with the oil and mix with the onion mixture. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Add the water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
6. Fluff the pilaf with a fork and stir in the toasted pine nuts and golden raisins. Season with salt to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Greek-Style Tomato and Feta Rice Bake
A flavorful and satisfying side dish that combines the simplicity of rice with the bold flavors of Greece.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Combine cooked rice, tomato mixture, and crumbled feta cheese in a baking dish.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
One-Pot Mediterranean Chicken and Rice
This hearty one-pot dish combines the flavors of the Mediterranean with juicy chicken, fluffy rice, and a blend of aromatic spices. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups uncooked white or brown rice
– 3 cups water
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, carrots, green beans)
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large, heavy pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the pot; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the mixed vegetables, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Add the rice, water, and browned chicken back to the pot. Stir to combine.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes or until rice is tender and liquid has been absorbed.
Optional: Sprinkle feta cheese on top of the dish during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Serve hot and enjoy!
Mediterranean Rice Salad with Olives and Cucumber
This refreshing salad combines the warmth of Mediterranean cuisine with the comfort of a grain bowl, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or oregano leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, olives, cucumber, and red onion.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice.
3. Pour the dressing over the rice mixture and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley or oregano leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Spanakorizo (Greek Spinach and Rice)
A classic Greek comfort food, Spanakorizo is a flavorful and nutritious dish that combines fresh spinach with aromatic rice, onions, garlic, and feta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the rice and stir to coat with the oil and mix with the onions and garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Add the water and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
7. Stir in the chopped spinach and crumbled feta cheese.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mediterranean Stuffed Bell Peppers with Rice
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the sweetness of bell peppers with the savory flavors of Mediterranean cuisine.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup chopped Kalamata olives
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, olives, feta cheese, parsley, garlic, and olive oil. Mix well.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the rice mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lemon Herb Rice with Kalamata Olives
Brighten up your meal with this flavorful and aromatic rice dish, infused with the tanginess of lemon and the savory taste of kalamata olives.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup pitted kalamata olives, sliced
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, parsley, dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to the saucepan. Cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the rice to the saucepan and stir to combine with the herb mixture.
5. Add the water to the saucepan and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
7. Stir in the sliced kalamata olives before serving.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Mediterranean Rice with Chickpeas and Artichokes
Savor the flavors of the Mediterranean with this hearty and healthy rice dish, packed with protein-rich chickpeas, tender artichoke hearts, and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 can (14.5 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges, optional
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic, artichoke hearts, chickpeas, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Once rice is cooked, fluff with a fork and add to the skillet. Stir to combine with the vegetable mixture.
5. Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkish Spiced Rice with Lamb and Apricots
Experience the bold flavors of Turkish cuisine with this hearty rice dish, infused with aromatic spices and tender lamb.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 pound lamb shoulder or ground lamb
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 1 cup apricots, diced
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the lamb and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon if using ground lamb.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in paprika, cumin, coriander powder, salt, and black pepper.
5. Add the rice and water to the saucepan; bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
7. Stir in diced apricots.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Mediterranean Rice and Lentil Bowl with Tahini Dressing
A flavorful and nutritious bowl filled with the warmth of Mediterranean spices, the comfort of cooked lentils, and the creaminess of tahini dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown rice
– 1 cup red or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons tahini
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup water
– Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the brown rice according to package instructions.
2. In a medium saucepan, sauté the onion and garlic in olive oil until softened. Add cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper; cook 1 minute.
3. Add the lentils and water to the saucepan; bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, and water to create the dressing.
5. Assemble the bowls by dividing the cooked rice and lentil mixture between two bowls. Top with chopped parsley or cilantro and drizzle with the tahini dressing.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Roasted Vegetable Mediterranean Rice Casserole
A flavorful and nutritious casserole perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This dish combines the natural sweetness of roasted vegetables with the savory flavors of Mediterranean rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped
– 2 zucchinis, sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
3. In a large bowl, toss together chopped onion, minced garlic, bell peppers, and zucchinis with olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Spread the vegetable mixture on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
5. In a large casserole dish, combine cooked rice, roasted vegetables, diced tomatoes, and crumbled feta cheese (if using).
6. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Mediterranean Rice with Shrimp and Lemon Butter Sauce
Experience the sunshine of the Mediterranean in every bite! This flavorful dish combines succulent shrimp, creamy lemon butter sauce, and a hint of herbs on top of fluffy Mediterranean rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water. Set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add shrimp and cook until pink and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and softened butter until smooth.
6. Stir in cooked rice, oregano, salt, and pepper.
7. Serve hot, topped with sautéed shrimp and lemon butter sauce.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Herbed Rice with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Feta
Elevate your mealtime with this flavorful and nutritious side dish, bursting with Mediterranean flair.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper to the saucepan; stir for 1 minute.
4. Add the rice to the saucepan; cook, stirring constantly, for 2 minutes.
5. Add the water to the saucepan; bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed.
6. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork. Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and crumbled feta cheese.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Mediterranean Rice-Stuffed Eggplant
Mediterranean Rice-Stuffed Eggplant Recipe
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed eggplant, this Mediterranean-inspired recipe combines the richness of Greek rice with the savory flavors of eggplant and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the eggplants in half lengthwise and place them on a baking sheet.
3. In a bowl, mix together cooked rice, parsley, feta cheese, olive oil, garlic, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Stuff each eggplant half with the rice mixture, dividing it evenly among the two.
5. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until the eggplant is tender and the filling is heated through.
6. Serve warm, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Lemony Rice with Fresh Dill and Parsley
Brighten up your meals with this refreshing side dish, infused with the zest of lemon and the freshness of dill and parsley.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil in a medium saucepan.
2. Add the rice, cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
3. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice and butter until melted.
4. Stir in chopped dill and parsley.
5. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mediterranean Rice and White Bean Stew
A hearty and flavorful stew that combines the comforting warmth of rice and beans with the bright, herby flavors of the Mediterranean.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 can (15 oz) Great Northern white beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and cook according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the white beans, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Once the rice is cooked, add it to the pot with the bean mixture. Stir to combine.
5. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the stew has thickened slightly.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Garlic Butter Rice with Roasted Red Peppers
Elevate your rice game with this flavorful and aromatic side dish, perfect for accompanying your favorite grilled meats or vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine rice and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
3. Meanwhile, melt butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Add chopped red bell pepper to the skillet and cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender.
5. Fluff cooked rice with a fork. Stir in roasted red peppers and season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Discover the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with these 18 delicious and savory rice recipes. From classic dishes like Lemon Garlic Mediterranean Rice with Herbs to innovative creations like Mediterranean Stuffed Bell Peppers with Rice, there’s something for everyone. Try your hand at One-Pot Mediterranean Chicken and Rice or Mediterranean Rice Salad with Olives and Cucumber. Explore the rich flavors of Greece, Turkey, and beyond in this collection of mouthwatering recipes that are sure to transport you to the sun-kissed Mediterranean coast.
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