Easy Broccoli and Rice

Looking for a quick and delicious side dish that’s packed with flavor and nutrients? This Easy Broccoli and Rice recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights or a wholesome addition to your dinner table. Made with tender white or brown rice and vibrant broccoli florets, this dish comes together in just 35 minutes using simple pantry staples like olive oil, garlic, and a touch of butter for richness. The optional sprinkle of Parmesan cheese adds a subtle, savory kick, making it a versatile option that pairs beautifully with your favorite proteins or stands alone as a light vegetarian meal. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this budget-friendly recipe is sure to become a go-to family favorite!

Nutriscore Rating: 63/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup white or brown rice
• 2 cups water or vegetable broth
• 3 cups broccoli florets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 0.25 cup optional grated Parmesan cheese

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the rice under cold water to remove excess starch. Set aside.

Step 2

In a medium-sized pot, bring the water or vegetable broth to a boil. Stir in the rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes (or according to the package instructions) until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

Step 3

While the rice cooks, prepare the broccoli. Wash the broccoli and cut it into bite-sized florets if not already done.

Step 4

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the broccoli and sauté for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 5

Add 2 tablespoons of water to the skillet with the broccoli, cover, and steam for another 3-4 minutes until the broccoli is tender but still vibrant green.

Step 6

In a small microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter, then stir in the minced garlic. Add the melted garlic butter to the skillet with the broccoli, tossing to coat evenly.

Step 7

Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and season with salt and pepper.

Step 8

Combine the cooked rice with the sautéed broccoli in the skillet. Toss everything together and adjust seasoning to taste. If using, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top.

Step 9

Serve warm as a side dish or a light meal. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1081.7 grams (1081.7g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1073

Total Fat 70.30g	90%
Saturated Fat 29.30g	147%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.70g
Cholesterol 110mg	37%
Sodium 5232mg	227%
Total Carbohydrate 80.40g	29%
Dietary Fiber 8.80g	31%
Total Sugars 5.40g
Protein 38.20g	76%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 845mg	65%
Iron 4mg	19%
Potassium 351mg	7%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 57.1%

Protein: 13.8%

Carbs: 29.0%