Herb Roasted Veggie Rice Skillet

Name: Herb Roasted Veggie Rice Skillet
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup bell peppers, chopped; 1 cup zucchini, sliced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup carrots, diced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried rosemary; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup rice, uncooked; 2 cups vegetable broth

Highlighted under: Clean Healthy Meals Favorites

I love preparing the Herb Roasted Veggie Rice Skillet because it’s a comforting and colorful dish that’s perfect for any meal. The combination of fresh vegetables, fragrant herbs, and rice creates a harmonious balance of flavors. We often make this for family gatherings or cozy nights in, and it never fails to impress. Each bite is not only satisfying but also packs a nutritional punch, making it a go-to recipe in my kitchen. Plus, it's incredibly easy to whip up, taking just a bit of time, yet resulting in a luscious, wholesome meal.

Created by

Lucy Thompson

Last updated on 2026-01-21T17:54:36.962Z

Cooking has always been a creative outlet for me, and my Herb Roasted Veggie Rice Skillet truly reflects that. The first time I made it, I experimented by roasting a variety of veggies until they were perfectly caramelized. This not only enhances their natural sweetness but also adds a depth of flavor that elevates the entire dish.

One specific trick I discovered is to add the herbs at the very end of cooking. This keeps their vibrant flavors intact, allowing the freshness of thyme, rosemary, or basil to shine through. Trust me, that little touch makes all the difference!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Bursting with seasonal veggies and aromatic herbs
A one-pan meal that simplifies cleanup
Nutritious and satisfying for any dinner table

The Role of Fresh Vegetables

Each vegetable in this Herb Roasted Veggie Rice Skillet plays a crucial role in both flavor and texture. Bell peppers add a sweet, crunchy element, while zucchini contributes a slight firmness and moisture that enhances the dish's overall juiciness. Cherry tomatoes burst with flavor, providing a juicy contrast to the other veggies, and carrots offer a touch of earthiness and sweetness. Choose vibrant, seasonal vegetables for the best results, as they not only look appealing but also elevate the dish with their unique, fresh flavors.

When prepping your vegetables, ensure they are cut uniformly to allow for even roasting. This means chopping your bell peppers and carrots into bite-sized pieces and slicing the zucchini thinly. A mixture of colorful vegetables not only makes for an attractive presentation but also ensures a range of nutrients. Feel free to experiment with options like broccoli or asparagus; just adjust the roasting time slightly since denser veggies may take longer to become tender.

Perfecting the Rice

Cooking the rice correctly is key to achieving the perfect texture for this dish. By using vegetable broth instead of water, you infuse the rice with additional flavor that complements the roasted vegetables beautifully. Bring the broth to a rolling boil before adding the rice, then reduce the heat to low and make sure to cover the pot tightly to trap steam. This method helps the rice cook evenly, becoming fluffy rather than sticky. If you notice that the rice is still too firm after 15 minutes, allow it to simmer a few more minutes without lifting the lid.

For those looking to make this dish gluten-free, substituting the rice with quinoa or a gluten-free grain is an excellent option. Keep an eye on cooking times, as these alternatives may require different liquid ratios and timing. To achieve a more robust flavor, consider adding a splash of soy sauce or a squeeze of lemon juice to the rice once it's cooked.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for an amazing meal.

Vegetables

1 cup bell peppers, chopped
1 cup zucchini, sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup carrots, diced

Herbs & Seasoning

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste

Rice

1 cup rice, uncooked
2 cups vegetable broth

Feel free to swap out vegetables based on your preference or seasonality.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a delightful dish.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Prepare the Vegetables

In a large bowl, toss the chopped vegetables with olive oil, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.

Roast the Vegetables

Spread the vegetables on a baking sheet and roast in the oven for about 20 minutes, or until tender.

Cook the Rice

While the veggies are roasting, combine the rice and vegetable broth in a pot and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the rice is cooked.

Combine and Serve

Once both the rice and roasted veggies are ready, combine them in a skillet and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve immediately.

Enjoy your colorful and aromatic Herb Roasted Veggie Rice Skillet!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand. This dish works well with a variety of seasonal produce and can be easily adjusted to your liking.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Herb Roasted Veggie Rice Skillet is an excellent dish for meal prep, as it stores well in the refrigerator for up to five days. To make ahead, roast the vegetables and cook the rice, then combine them and store in airtight containers. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water to prevent sticking. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-7 minutes, and enjoy a quick, nutritious meal.

If you're looking to freeze this dish, allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. This skillet can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat in a skillet, adding a bit of liquid to restore moisture lost during freezing.

Serving Suggestions

This dish can be served on its own as a hearty vegetarian meal, but it also pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish for added protein. If you're feeling adventurous, consider adding a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of feta cheese on top for a creamy contrast to the textures of the roasted vegetables and rice. The fresh flavors of the herbs and vegetables make this skillet an excellent accompaniment to a light salad or a side of crusty bread.

For a delightful variation, try adding cooked chickpeas or lentils for an extra protein boost. These can be stirred in just before serving, enhancing both flavor and nutritional value. Additionally, you could spice things up with a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of balsamic vinegar before serving to add a zesty kick.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but remember that brown rice takes longer to cook. Adjust the broth and cooking time accordingly.

→ Is this dish vegan?

Absolutely! All ingredients are plant-based, making it a perfect vegan meal.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the roasted vegetables and rice ahead of time. Just warm them before serving.

→ What can I serve this dish with?

This skillet works well as a side dish or can be served as a main course paired with a protein like tofu or grilled chicken.