18 Simple Vegan Rice Recipes

Rice is a staple in my kitchen because it’s so dependable. I can pair it with almost anything, and it makes a meal feel complete. Whether I’m using up leftovers or starting from scratch, a pot of rice is usually my first step.

These recipes are all easy, using simple ingredients to turn plain rice into something really good. Here are 18 simple vegan rice recipes I rely on for quick dinners and satisfying lunches.

1. Basic Garlic Herb Rice

White rice cooked in vegetable broth with minced garlic and a handful of chopped parsley stirred in at the end. It’s my go-to side dish.

Nutrition per serving:

1. Calories: 210
2. Protein: 4g
3. Carbs: 45g
4. Fat: 1g
5. Fiber: 1g

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2. Easy Vegetable Fried Rice

Leftover rice stir-fried with frozen mixed vegetables, tofu, and a simple sauce of soy sauce and sesame oil.

Nutrition per serving:

1. Calories: 280
2. Protein: 12g
3. Carbs: 48g
4. Fat: 5g
5. Fiber: 5g

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3. Spanish-Style Rice (Arroz Rojo)

Rice cooked in a tomato-based broth with onions and garlic. I stir in frozen peas at the end for color and sweetness.

Nutrition per serving:

1. Calories: 230
2. Protein: 5g
3. Carbs: 50g
4. Fat: 1g
5. Fiber: 3g

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4. Coconut Lime Rice

Jasmine rice cooked with coconut milk and a squeeze of lime juice. It’s creamy and pairs well with spicy curries or black beans.

Nutrition per serving:

1. Calories: 260
2. Protein: 5g
3. Carbs: 45g
4. Fat: 8g
5. Fiber: 2g

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5. Lentil and Rice One-Pot

Brown rice and brown lentils cooked together with vegetable broth and onions. It’s a hearty, protein-packed base for bowls.

Nutrition per serving:

1. Calories: 320
2. Protein: 14g
3. Carbs: 60g
4. Fat: 2g
5. Fiber: 14g

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6. Lemon Pepper Rice

White rice brightened up with lots of lemon zest and black pepper. I make this when I want a simple, zesty side.

Nutrition per serving:

1. Calories: 200
2. Protein: 4g
3. Carbs: 44g
4. Fat: 1g
5. Fiber: 1g

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7. Black Bean and Rice Burrito Bowls

A bowl of rice topped with seasoned black beans, corn, salsa, and avocado. It’s my fastest dinner solution.

Nutrition per serving:

1. Calories: 380
2. Protein: 13g
3. Carbs: 70g
4. Fat: 7g
5. Fiber: 15g

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8. Mushroom and Pea Pilaf

Rice sautéed with mushrooms and onions, then simmered in broth. I stir in frozen peas right before serving.

Nutrition per serving:

1. Calories: 240
2. Protein: 7g
3. Carbs: 48g
4. Fat: 3g
5. Fiber: 4g

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9. Tomato Basil Rice

Rice cooked with a can of diced tomatoes and finished with fresh basil. It’s like a simple, chunky tomato sauce mixed right in.

Nutrition per serving:

1. Calories: 220
2. Protein: 5g
3. Carbs: 48g
4. Fat: 1g
5. Fiber: 3g

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10. Turmeric Ginger Rice

Rice cooked with grated fresh ginger and ground turmeric, giving it a warm color and gentle spice.

Nutrition per serving:

1. Calories: 210
2. Protein: 4g
3. Carbs: 45g
4. Fat: 1g
5. Fiber: 1g

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11. Rice and Black-Eyed Peas

A simple, savory combination of rice and black-eyed peas cooked with a bay leaf and onion. It’s very comforting.

Nutrition per serving:

1. Calories: 300
2. Protein: 11g
3. Carbs: 62g
4. Fat: 1g
5. Fiber: 9g

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12. “Cheesy” Nutritional Yeast Rice

White rice stirred with a tablespoon or two of nutritional yeast and a pinch of garlic powder for a cheesy, savory flavor.

Nutrition per serving:

1. Calories: 220
2. Protein: 7g
3. Carbs: 45g
4. Fat: 1g
5. Fiber: 3g

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13. Rice with Spinach and Lemon

Fresh spinach wilted into hot cooked rice with a big squeeze of lemon juice. It’s a fast way to add greens to a meal.

Nutrition per serving:

1. Calories: 190
2. Protein: 5g
3. Carbs: 42g
4. Fat: 1g
5. Fiber: 3g

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14. Rice Porridge (Congee)

Rice simmered with a lot of water or broth until it breaks down into a soft, comforting porridge. I top it with scallions and soy sauce.

Nutrition per serving:

1. Calories: 160
2. Protein: 4g
3. Carbs: 35g
4. Fat: 1g
5. Fiber: 1g

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15. Rice Salad with Italian Dressing

Cold cooked rice tossed with chopped vegetables and a simple Italian vinaigrette. It’s perfect for picnics or make-ahead lunches.

Nutrition per serving:

1. Calories: 250
2. Protein: 5g
3. Carbs: 45g
4. Fat: 6g
5. Fiber: 3g

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16. Smoky Rice and Beans

Rice cooked with pinto beans, smoked paprika, and a little tomato paste for a deep, smoky flavor.

Nutrition per serving:

1. Calories: 310
2. Protein: 11g
3. Carbs: 64g
4. Fat: 1g
5. Fiber: 12g

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17. Sweet Rice with Cinnamon and Raisins

A slightly sweet side dish made by cooking rice with cinnamon, raisins, and a touch of maple syrup.

Nutrition per serving:

1. Calories: 250
2. Protein: 4g
3. Carbs: 58g
4. Fat: 1g
5. Fiber: 2g

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18. Green Rice (Arroz Verde)

Rice cooked with a blended puree of spinach, cilantro, and vegetable broth. It turns the rice a vibrant green and adds fresh herb flavor.

Nutrition per serving:

1. Calories: 210
2. Protein: 5g
3. Carbs: 45g
4. Fat: 1g
5. Fiber: 2g

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