Easy Greek Rice

Need an easy go-to side dish?  If so, this recipe is right up your alley.  It’s easy, delicious and goes with just about anything.

I have my friend Lence to thank for this recipe.  She served this as a side dish at a BBQ she hosted a few years back.  I took one bite and immediately commented on how good it was and she immediately responded back with how easy it was to make.  She wasn’t kidding.  Not only was it super easy to make, it tasted just like hers – which I consider to be a huge accomplishment because Lence is a great cook and has a European background.

Here’s what you’ll need …

 Start by adding your rice to your oven-safe dish …

 Next up, add some pepper and a little more than a pinch of salt …

Now for the secret ingredient … VEGETA!  This magic seasoning can be found in the spice section of your grocery store.

Add your olive oil …

And your frozen veggies + water …

Mix everything together in your oven-safe dish …

Throw it in the oven for an hour, making sure to check on it halfway through to give it a little stir …

And voila!  The yummiest, easiest, straight-of-the-boat Greek Rice …

INGREDIENTS

• 2 cups uncooked rice (I used Uncle Ben’s Converted Rice, but this recipe is great with basmati as well)
• 4 cups water
• 1 cup frozen veggies (I normally use corn, peas, carrots and green beans)
• 2 Tbsp Vegeta (or more to taste)
• 1 tsp salt (or more to taste)
• 1 tsp black pepper (or more to taste)
• 1 Tbsp olive oil

INSTRUCTIONS

• Preheat oven to 350°
• Combine rice and spices in an oven-safe container and stir until well-blended.
• Add olive oil and stir some more.
• Add water and continue stirring until ingredients are wet and well covered.
• Add frozen veggies and stir until moistened.
• Place dish in the oven and bake uncovered for one hour, checking halfway through to see if the rice needs to be stirred.
• Remove from oven when rice is cooked and to your liking.

Serve Easy Greek Rice alongside your favourite meat dish (it’s great with chicken!) and with some tzatziki for a truly Mediterranean taste.

OPA!

~ Jackie