High Protein Herb-Infused Rice

Elevate your weeknight meals with this High Protein Herb-Infused Rice, a wholesome fusion of nutty grains and fresh herbs that’s as nutritious as it is flavorful. This recipe combines hearty brown rice, protein-packed quinoa, and tender chickpeas, all simmered to perfection in aromatic vegetable broth. Fragrant additions like parsley, thyme, and basil infuse every bite with vibrant herbal notes, while a touch of lemon zest adds a citrusy pop. Perfectly balanced and high in plant-based protein, this satisfying dish is vegan, gluten-free, and ready in under an hour. Serve it as a nourishing main course or a versatile side dish to complement your favorite entrees. Whether you’re meal prepping or cooking for the family, this herb-infused rice will quickly become a mealtime favorite!

Nutriscore Rating: 73/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:40 mins

Total Time:50 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup brown rice
• 0.5 cup quinoa
• 1 cup canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 3 cups vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
• 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the brown rice and quinoa under cold water in a sieve until the water runs clear. This helps to remove any excess starch and bitterness from the quinoa.

Step 2

In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.

Step 3

Add the minced garlic to the pan and cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

Step 4

Stir in the brown rice and quinoa, allowing them to toast slightly, about 2 minutes. This step enhances the nutty flavor of the grains.

Step 5

Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil.

Step 6

Lower the heat to a simmer, cover the pan, and cook for 25 minutes.

Step 7

After 25 minutes, add the chickpeas, parsley, thyme, basil, salt, and pepper to the pan. Stir to combine.

Step 8

Continue cooking, covered, for another 10 minutes, or until the rice and quinoa are tender and the liquid is absorbed.

Step 9

Remove the saucepan from the heat. Let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 10

Fluff the rice with a fork and stir in the lemon zest just before serving.

Step 11

Taste and adjust the seasoning, if necessary, before serving the herb-infused rice.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1397.5 grams (1397.5g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1376

Total Fat 46.80g	60%
Saturated Fat 6.50g	33%
Polyunsaturated Fat 4.80g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 5365mg	233%
Total Carbohydrate 197.50g	72%
Dietary Fiber 27.60g	99%
Total Sugars 24.00g
Protein 46.70g	93%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 277mg	21%
Iron 13mg	69%
Potassium 2150mg	46%

*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: 30.1%

Protein: 13.4%

Carbs: 56.5%