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An extreme macro shot showing the texture of the fluffy rice and hearty beans in the Mediterranean rice and beans dish, with a fresh parsley garnish.

Mediterranean Rice and Beans (The Easiest, Most Flavorful Recipe!)

This Mediterranean Rice and Beans recipe is a vibrant, one-pan dish that combines fluffy rice, hearty beans, and a savory blend of herbs and lemon. It's a quick, healthy, and budget-friendly meal perfect for any night of the week.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Lunch, Main Course
Cuisine: Greek, Mediterranean
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tbsp Olive Oil Extra virgin recommended
  • 1 Yellow Onion finely chopped
  • 3 cloves Garlic minced
  • 1 cup Long-Grain White Rice uncooked
  • 2 cups Vegetable Broth
  • 1 can (15 oz) Diced Tomatoes undrained
  • 1 can (15 oz) Chickpeas rinsed and drained
  • 1 can (15 oz) Kidney Beans rinsed and drained
  • 1 tsp Dried Oregano
  • 1/2 tsp Dried Dill
  • 1/2 tsp Salt or to taste
  • 1/4 tsp Black Pepper or to taste
  • 2 tbsp Fresh Lemon Juice
  • 1 tsp Lemon Zest
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley chopped
  • 1/2 cup Crumbled Feta Cheese
  • 1/4 cup Kalamata Olives halved

Equipment

  • 1 Large skillet or Dutch oven
  • 1 Cutting Board
  • 1 Knife

Method
 

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  2. Add the uncooked rice to the skillet and stir for about one minute until the grains are lightly toasted.
  3. Pour in the vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, rinsed chickpeas, and kidney beans. Stir in the dried oregano, dill, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  4. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed the liquid.
  5. Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork. Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and fresh parsley. Top with crumbled feta cheese and Kalamata olives before serving.

Notes

Tip 1: For extra flavor, toast the rice in the skillet for a minute before adding the liquids. This gives it a slightly nutty taste.
Tip 2: Feel free to add other vegetables like chopped bell peppers or spinach for an extra nutritional boost.
Tip 3: This dish is great for meal prep! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.