Broccoli and rice are common ingredients that offer plenty of possibilities when it comes to cooking. Not only are they nutritious but also highly versatile in a whole host of crowd-pleasing dishes. That’s why Carolina® Rice is here to guide you through a variety of easy and creative ways to prepare broccoli and rice, highlighting their culinary flexibility. From cheesy lunch and dinner options to rice bowls, we’ve got you covered. So, without further ado, let’s get cooking! 

Why Broccoli is a Superfood

Broccoli is often celebrated as a superfood due to its rich nutrient content. It’s low in calories yet high in essential vitamins and minerals, particularly:

  • Vitamin C
  • Vitamin K
  • Fiber
  • Antioxidants

As you can see, broccoli is a vegetable that packs a nutritional punch. Best of all, it’s easy to incorporate into recipes and tastes great to boot!

Recipes with Broccoli and Cheese 

Some ingredients are a match made in heaven, right? Well, that’s certainly the case with broccoli and cheese. If you’re craving hearty meals that combine these two ingredients, try using rice as your base. This simple yet satisfying recipe for Cheesy Broccoli Soup is sure to satisfy. Made with Carolina® White Rice you’ll simply love the glorious taste of melted cheddar, tender broccoli, fresh herbs, and veggies. What’s more, you can whip this little gem up in under 20 minutes, making it the perfect meal for busy weeknights. 

Quiche-Inspired Broccoli and Rice

Eggs and rice are two versatile ingredients that work a treat in a whole variety of meals. So, if you’re not sure what to cook with the broccoli you have, how about trying your hand at this Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Tart? Made with ham, cheddar, and Parmesan cheese, celery, onions, and parsley, it takes inspiration from traditional quiche recipes. 

Chef’s Tip: Don’t skimp on cheddar cheese and ham if you’re looking for an extra savory kick. 

Chicken and Broccoli

Green Rice Salad with chicken and broccoli
Green Rice Salad with Chicken

If chicken and rice are regularly on the menu in your house, here’s a neat recipe to help you throw some broccoli into the mix. Our Green Rice Salad with Chicken is simply bursting with comforting flavors. Made with tender rotisserie chicken, crumbly feta cheese, broccoli florets, and Carolina® Ready to Heat Garlic & Olive Oil Rice, this delightfully tasty dish is ready in just 5 minutes. Perfect for when you’re craving a nutritious meal in minutes. 

Simple Broccoli and Rice Salad

Green Rice with Roasted Vegetables and White Rice
Green Rice with Roasted Veggies

Alternatively, if you’re looking for a rice salad recipe that includes broccoli, we’ve got just the dish for you. This Green Rice with Roasted Veggies is a mouthwatering meal that makes the most of seasonal greens. Loaded with broccoli, asparagus, Brussels sprouts, and kale leaves, this satisfying dish is served on a bed of delicious white rice. 

Creative Veggie and Meatball Pairing

Nothing beats a delicious serving of meatballs when it comes to comfort food, right? However, finding the right combo of veggies to pair with your meatballs can be tricky. Don’t fret, this Tangy Sweet & Sour Meatballs with Jasmine Rice recipe hits on a novel, yet flavorful, combo. Adding broccoli to this simple rice and meatballs dish amps up the flavor and nutritional profile in equal measure. Best of all, it features an easy-to-follow homemade sweet & sour sauce recipe that’s guaranteed to wow everyone at your dining table. 

Broccoli and Rice in Global Cuisines

Now that you’re armed with some enticing new recipes with broccoli, let’s explore ways in which this humble vegetable and rice combo is used in cooking around the world. Broccoli and rice have found their place in a multitude of cuisines. Their adaptability allows these ingredients to shine in different flavor profiles and cooking traditions.

  • Asian Cuisine: In many Asian countries, broccoli and rice are commonly combined in dishes such as stir-fries and fried rice. These meals often incorporate bold flavors such as soy sauce, ginger, and garlic, creating a delicious balance of taste and nutrition.
  • Mexican Cuisine: Broccoli can be used as a topping or filling in tacos or burritos, served alongside seasoned rice. This combination can be enhanced with spices like cumin and coriander to create an aromatic and satisfying meal.
  • Italian Cuisine: Casseroles featuring broccoli and rice can be found in abundance in Italian cooking. The addition of cheeses and tomato-based sauces infuses these meals with rich flavors, making them hearty, filling, and unmistakable Mediterranean.
  • Indian Cuisine: Broccoli can be included in rice dishes cooked with spices such as turmeric, cumin, and garam masala, creating a fragrant rice pilaf. This application showcases the ingredient’s adaptability to vibrant flavors.

Homemade Meals the Easy Way

Cooking for loved ones is one of life’s enduring pleasures. You simply can’t beat the feeling of seeing friends and family delight in every bite of your culinary creations. Sure, it’s good to have some signature dishes in your locker, but it’s also neat to mix things up from time to time, and that’s where Carolina® Rice comes in. We’re passionate about helping you expand your culinary horizons so that whatever you decide to cook always #feelslikehome.

For more culinary tips and recipe ideas, check out our blog to see what’s cooking

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