Smoky Paprika Veggie Rice

Name: Smoky Paprika Veggie Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup long-grain rice; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon smoked paprika; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 zucchini, diced; 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen); Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Home Healthy Meals Collection

I absolutely love this Smoky Paprika Veggie Rice recipe! It’s a perfect blend of flavors and textures that can brighten up any meal. The smokiness of the paprika adds a depth that complements the veggies beautifully, making it a delightful side dish or a hearty main course. It's quick to prepare, so I often whip it up on busy weekdays or when entertaining guests. The best part is that it’s versatile—you can use whatever vegetables you have on hand, making it a great addition to any kitchen repertoire.

Created by

Ophelia Turner

Last updated on 2026-01-21T21:13:34.874Z

When I first experimented with this Smoky Paprika Veggie Rice, I was amazed at how a simple spice like paprika could transform a basic rice dish into something extraordinary. Each grain of rice absorbs the rich flavor, and the colorful vegetables make it visually appealing. I often serve it alongside grilled proteins or enjoy it as a meatless meal on its own.

I discovered that to enhance the flavors even more, toasting the paprika briefly before adding it to the rice makes a world of difference. This method amplifies the smoky notes and creates a more robust profile in the final dish, turning a quick recipe into something truly special.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The smoky paprika imparts a deep, satisfying flavor that is absolutely addictive.
Packed with nutritious veggies that add both color and health benefits.
Quick and easy to make—perfect for busy nights or spontaneous gatherings.

The Role of Smoky Paprika

Smoky paprika is the star of this recipe, bringing a distinctly rich flavor that enhances the overall taste profile. Its smokiness not only adds depth but also balances the sweetness of the vegetables. When selecting paprika, opt for a high-quality smoked variety to achieve that authentic flavor kick. The spice can vary in intensity, so feel free to adjust the amount based on your personal taste preference. Remember, a little can go a long way in transforming this simple dish into something special!

In addition to flavor, smoked paprika offers health benefits. It's known for its antioxidant properties, which can contribute to better overall health. When combined with the vibrant array of vegetables in this recipe, you're not only indulging in deliciousness but also providing your body with essential nutrients. This combination makes it a guilt-free indulgence that can easily satisfy your cravings.

Vegetable Variations

One of the best aspects of Smoky Paprika Veggie Rice is its versatility. You can easily swap in or out vegetables based on what you have available. For instance, you might consider adding frozen peas, diced carrots, or even spinach for an extra boost of nutrients. Just be cautious about cooking times; softer vegetables like zucchini may cook faster than firmer ones like carrots. Adding them at the right time is key to maintaining a pleasing texture throughout.

If you're accommodating dietary preferences, this recipe can easily be made vegan. It naturally is, but ensure that your vegetable broth is plant-based, as some brands may contain animal-derived ingredients. The same goes for garnishes—fresh parsley or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast can elevate flavors without compromising dietary choices.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Smoky Paprika Veggie Rice is a perfect make-ahead dish! Prepare a batch on the weekend, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. This allows the flavors to meld and deepen even further, making for an even tastier meal on subsequent days. When ready to serve, reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of vegetable broth to loosen the rice and restore its fluffy texture.

If you're looking to freeze this dish, portion it out into individual servings before placing them in freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat. Just keep in mind that some vegetables might lose their firmness upon freezing, so be prepared for a slightly softer texture when reheating.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious Smoky Paprika Veggie Rice:

Ingredients

1 cup long-grain rice
2 cups vegetable broth
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 zucchini, diced
1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Mix these ingredients together to create a nourishing and flavorful meal.

Instructions

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

Cook the Rice

In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and red bell pepper, sautéing until they are soft, about 5 minutes. Then, add the zucchini and corn, continuing to cook for another 3-4 minutes.

Combine and Season

Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and add it to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Stir in the smoked paprika and season with salt and pepper. Mix well to combine everything thoroughly.

Serve

Serve the Smoky Paprika Veggie Rice warm, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy your nutritious, flavorful dish!

This dish is best served hot and makes for excellent leftovers!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños when sautéing the vegetables.

Serving Suggestions

Smoky Paprika Veggie Rice makes a delightful base for various proteins. Pair it with grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a complete meal. The rice's smoky flavor can complement a variety of side dishes, making it an excellent option for potlucks or family gatherings. Consider serving it alongside a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal.

For a fun twist, you can wrap this flavorful rice in lettuce leaves for a light, refreshing bite. Another creative option is to serve it in bowls topped with avocado slices, a dollop of Greek yogurt, or a sprinkle of feta cheese for added richness.

Scaling the Recipe

Scaling this recipe for larger gatherings is straightforward. Simply double or triple the ingredient amounts while keeping the cooking time similar. Ensure you have a pot large enough to accommodate the additional rice and liquid. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly as the increased volume could require a bit more simmering to fully absorb the broth.

When preparing a larger batch, consider using a larger skillet for sautéing the vegetables. This ensures even cooking and prevents overcrowding, which can lead to steaming instead of sautéing. Keep an eye on the vegetables to maintain their vibrant colors and textures during this process.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead?

Yes, but you will need to increase the cooking time and liquid. Brown rice typically takes about 40-45 minutes to cook.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add any vegetables you prefer, such as peas, carrots, or spinach. Just ensure they are cooked until tender.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is vegan as written since it uses vegetable broth and no dairy.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a microwave or on the stovetop.