Ready to hit the reset button this new year but not sure where to begin? We’ve got you covered! Carolina® Rice brings you a variety of flavorful rice-based recipes packed with vibrant, flavorful greens. Rice is an adaptable base that makes building veggie-forward meals simple and satisfying. From casseroles to salads to poke bowls, there’s something for everyone. Let’s dive into your New Year meal inspiration.

Ways to Make Green Rice 

Green Rice with Roasted Vegetables and White Rice

Adding leafy greens and vegetables directly to your rice is an easy way to boost nutrition. Start with our Green Rice with Roasted Vegetables, featuring a lively trio of asparagus, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts for a nutrient-dense dish with bold flavor.

Avocado lovers will enjoy this Lime Avocado Rice, where creamy avocado meets fluffy Carolina® Organic White Rice for an irresistibly smooth pairing. Best of all, it takes only about 20 minutes to make—healthy eating doesn’t get simpler.

And if you’re craving chicken, try our Garlic Lemon Chicken Kebabs with Green Rice. The vibrant green rice blend—made with Carolina® Jasmine Rice, spinach, cilantro, and parsley—perfectly complements the bright, citrusy chicken skewers.

Poke Bowls Packed with Veggies

If poke bowls are new to you, get ready for a delicious discovery. A poke bowl is a Hawaiian dish featuring diced raw fish served over rice with fresh vegetables, seaweed, and bold sauces. It’s colorful, customizable, and satisfying.

Our Vegetarian Beet Poke Bowl is a fantastic option for a New Year reset. Made with Carolina® Jasmine Brown Rice, cucumber, edamame, avocado, sesame seeds, and nutrient-rich beets, it’s bursting with texture and flavor.

Prefer something with seafood? Try this Tuna Avocado Poke Bowl. Crisp cucumber and creamy avocado provide the “green,” while Carolina® Basmati Rice adds its signature fragrance and fluffy texture.

Rice Salads with a Leafy Twist

brown-rice-and-beef-lettuce-wraps-with-kimchi-and-gochujang

When it comes to leafy greens, crunchy lettuce reigns supreme. For a fun way to include it in your meals, try these Rice and Beef Lettuce Wraps—made with brown rice, ground beef, gochujang paste, green onions, and sesame seeds for a flavorful combination.

For busy days when you need something portable, our Mason Jar Rice Salad is a lifesaver. Layered with avocado, tomatoes, carrots, pinto beans, cilantro, and kale, it’s a convenient, nutrient-forward meal you can take anywhere.

Cozy, Comforting Meals Packed with Greens

The best way to ward off the winter chill is by curling up with a warm, comforting meal. Our Green Bean Rice Casserole is the perfect choice. Filled with green beans, white rice, onions, rosemary, and minced cloves, and finished with melted manchego, it checks all the boxes for cold-weather comfort. All you have to do is gather your ingredients and let the oven work its magic.

vegan tinga rice bowl with avocado

For a comforting meal with a bit of heat, try the Vegan Tinga Rice Bowl. Made with Carolina® White Rice and plenty of nutritious broccoli florets, it’s quick to prepare and boasts a delicious balance of earthy broccoli and aromatic jasmine rice.

FAQs: Adding Greens to Rice Meals

Why are green-filled rice meals a healthy choice?

They combine whole grains with nutrient-rich vegetables, offering fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support overall wellness and steady energy.

Which greens are best for rice dishes?

They combine whole grains with nutrient-rich vegetables, offering fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support overall wellness and steady energy.

Can I prep these meals ahead of time?

Yes. Many green-packed rice dishes keep well for 3–4 days, making them ideal for meal prep.

What type of rice should I use?

Any variety works—white, brown, jasmine, basmati, or even wild rice—depending on your preferred texture and flavor.

How can I add more protein?

Absolutely. Choose plant-based proteins and gluten-free seasonings like tamari to tailor the meal to your needs.

Are these recipes vegan or gluten-free friendly?

Many of the recipes featured today are gluten-free and vegetarian-friendly. You can also adapt the others to include plant-based proteins and gluten-free seasonings like tamari.

Can I adjust the flavor of my rice bowls?

Definitely! Add sauces such as citrus dressings, soy, sesame, or chili oil, and finish with nuts, seeds, or pickled veggies for extra texture.

New Year’s Resolution – Enjoy More Home-Cooked Food

Let this year be one of home-cooked meals. Whether you prefer hearty comfort dishes or veggie-packed bowls, feel free to experiment and make each recipe your own. After all, the best cooking always #feelslikehome.

For more tips and inspiring recipes, be sure to visit our blog.