Smoky Paprika Veggie Rice

Name: Smoky Paprika Veggie Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup long-grain rice; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 1 bell pepper, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 zucchini, diced; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for serving)

Highlighted under: Basic Quick Meals Collection

I absolutely love making Smoky Paprika Veggie Rice because it's a colorful, flavorful dish that embodies the essence of comfort food. The smoky paprika adds a depth of flavor that dances beautifully with the fresh vegetables, creating a delightful harmony on the plate. This dish is super quick to whip up, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or even meal prep. I often pair it with protein like grilled chicken or chickpeas to round out the meal, but it's just as satisfying on its own!

Created by

Marlowe Sinclair

Last updated on 2026-01-19T23:17:35.569Z

When I first made Smoky Paprika Veggie Rice, I didn’t expect it to become a regular in my household. The rich, smoky flavor turns humble rice into something special, and the vibrant vegetables catch everyone’s eye. I experimented a bit with the cooking method, and gently sautéing the veggies before adding the rice really helped to infuse the entire dish with their flavor.

One tip I swear by is to let the rice sit covered for a few minutes after cooking. This step allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a dish that’s not just a side but a standout meal. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd or just treating yourself after a long day!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        The smoky and savory flavors create a mouthwatering dish.
Quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
Versatile enough to pair with your favorite proteins or as a stand-alone meal.

      

The Essence of Smoky Paprika

Smoked paprika is the star ingredient in this dish, imparting a rich, deep flavor that elevates the simple combination of vegetables and rice. This spice not only adds a complex smokiness but also a beautiful reddish hue, enhancing the visual appeal of the final dish. To maintain the potency of its flavor, make sure to store smoked paprika in a cool, dark place, as exposure to light and heat can quickly diminish its distinctive qualities.

When selecting smoked paprika, you may encounter different varieties ranging from sweet to hot. For this recipe, I recommend using sweet smoked paprika, which complements the vegetables without overwhelming them. If you're adventurous, a touch of hot paprika mixed in can introduce a pleasing spiciness that makes each bite more exciting.

Choosing Your Vegetables

While this recipe features a classic medley of vegetables, the beauty of Smoky Paprika Veggie Rice lies in its versatility. Feel free to experiment with seasonal vegetables such as corn, peas, or even kale for additional nutrients and flavor. Just ensure that any vegetables you substitute cook at a similar rate to the zucchini, so they become tender without turning mushy.

If you're looking to make this dish even heartier, consider adding protein-rich ingredients such as chickpeas or black beans. Simply stir them in along with the rice, adjusting the cooking time slightly if needed to ensure everything heats through and melds together. This not only enhances the nutritional profile but also creates a satisfying and fulfilling meal.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to prepare this delightful Smoky Paprika Veggie Rice:

Ingredients

1 cup long-grain rice
2 cups vegetable broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
1 bell pepper, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 zucchini, diced
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for serving)

Make sure to have these ingredients ready for a delicious meal!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Smoky Paprika Veggie Rice:

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and diced zucchini; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Cook the Rice

Stir in the rice and smoked paprika, ensuring the grains are coated with the flavorful oil and spices. Pour in the vegetable broth and season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.

Rest and Serve

Once the rice has finished cooking, remove it from heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork, and serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Enjoy your flavorful Smoky Paprika Veggie Rice!

Pro Tips

For added protein, consider mixing in chickpeas or shredded chicken during the last few minutes of cooking.

Storing and Reheating

This Smoky Paprika Veggie Rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors often deepen as it sits, making leftovers something to look forward to. When storing, be sure to let the rice cool completely before sealing to avoid excess moisture, which can lead to clumping.

Reheating is simple; add a splash of vegetable broth or water to the rice when microwaving to help restore its moisture. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until it's warmed through. For a quick fix without a microwave, you can also reheat in a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid to trap steam.

Scaling Up or Down

This recipe is easily adjustable depending on your needs. If you're cooking for a crowd, doubling the recipe is straightforward; just ensure that your pot is large enough to accommodate the increased volume. Keep the same cooking times, but check the rice for doneness, as larger quantities may require slight adjustments.

Conversely, if you're cooking for one or two, you can easily halve the ingredients. Just store any leftover vegetable broth for another meal, as it can be used in soups or sauces. Reducing the ingredients may also allow for even more inventive vegetable pairings, so don't hesitate to adapt based on what you have on hand.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and liquid ratio. Brown rice typically requires more time and may need around 2.5 cups of broth.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

You can add red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño when sautéing the vegetables.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, it’s completely plant-based and can be enjoyed by everyone!

→ What other vegetables can I include?

Feel free to add or substitute any seasonal vegetables like carrots, peas, or corn.