Mediterranean Tomato Rice

Name: Mediterranean Tomato Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup long-grain rice; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Fresh parsley or feta cheese for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Fusion Cooking

I love whipping up this Mediterranean Tomato Rice whenever I want something full of flavor but super simple to make. The vibrant colors of the tomatoes combined with the aromatic herbs create a dish that's not just easy on the eyes but also on the palate. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or as a hearty vegetarian main dish. In just under an hour, you can serve up a plate that transports you to the sun-soaked shores of the Mediterranean, making every bite a delightful experience.

Created by

Flora Kensington

Last updated on 2026-02-08T03:24:38.451Z

When I first made this Mediterranean Tomato Rice, I was amazed at how a few simple ingredients could create such an explosion of flavor. I experimented with different herbs and spices to enhance the tomato base, eventually landing on a blend of oregano and basil that's just perfect. The key is to let the rice absorb all the juices from the tomatoes, so stir it well and let it simmer.

One tip I’ve discovered is to use a quality vegetable broth when cooking the rice; it elevates the flavor significantly compared to using water. I also like to garnish with fresh parsley or feta cheese to add a bit of creaminess. You can make it a day in advance, and it tastes even better the next day!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Bursting with fresh Mediterranean flavors
Easy to make with pantry staples
Perfectly pairs with grilled meats or as a stand-alone vegetarian dish

      

The Importance of Fresh Herbs

When preparing Mediterranean Tomato Rice, the use of fresh herbs such as oregano and basil truly elevates the dish. These herbs not only provide vibrant flavors but also contribute aromatic qualities that enhance the overall sensory experience. If you're using dried herbs to save time, remember that their potency is stronger; typically, one teaspoon of dried herbs equals three teaspoons of fresh. This careful balancing can make all the difference in achieving that authentic Mediterranean taste.

One of my favorite tricks is to add the herbs towards the end of the cooking process. This ensures that their flavors remain bright and not overly muted by prolonged cooking times. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider incorporating fresh thyme or even a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick. Watching the rice absorb these fragrant spices is a joy in itself!

Perfecting the Rice Texture

Achieving the perfect texture in your Mediterranean Tomato Rice relies on the type of rice chosen. Long-grain rice, such as Basmati or Jasmine varieties, works exceptionally well for this recipe due to its ability to remain fluffy and separate. I recommend rinsing the rice in cold water before cooking to remove excess starch; this step will help prevent clumping, allowing each grain to shine.

Moreover, the cooking process is just as crucial. You want to bring your vegetable broth to a simmer before adding the rice. Once it’s in the pot, avoid stirring too often; this can cause the rice to release more starch and become gummy. Instead, give it a gentle stir only once after adding the rice and then cover to let it cook undisturbed, ensuring that each grain cooks evenly.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delightful dish:

Ingredients

1 cup long-grain rice
2 cups vegetable broth
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
Fresh parsley or feta cheese for garnish (optional)

Make sure to have everything ready before you begin cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Mediterranean Tomato Rice:

Sauté the Vegetables

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Add Tomatoes and Spices

Stir in the diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes.

Cook the Rice

Add the rice and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir well, bring to a simmer, and cover. Cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.

Fluff and Serve

Once cooked, remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork and serve garnished with parsley or feta cheese.

Enjoy your Mediterranean Tomato Rice warm!

Pro Tips

For extra texture and flavor, consider adding olives or capers. Adjust the herbs to your liking for a personalized touch.

Serving Suggestions

Serving Mediterranean Tomato Rice can be versatile. You can dish it up alongside grilled meats like chicken or lamb to complement the vibrant flavors within the rice. Alternatively, it stands beautifully on its own as a hearty vegetarian main dish, especially when paired with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables. For an added burst of flavor, a drizzle of garlic-infused olive oil just before serving can enhance the overall dining experience.

If you want to elevate the presentation, consider garnishing with fresh parsley or crumbled feta cheese. The creamy feta balances the acidity of the tomatoes perfectly while adding a delightful textural contrast. I love the way the vibrant green herbs or white cheese pop against the rich, red hues of the rice!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers or want to meal prep, this Mediterranean Tomato Rice stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to restore moisture and prevent the rice from drying out. Gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.

For those looking to batch cook, this recipe doubles easily, making it perfect for larger gatherings. You can also freeze the rice for up to three months. Just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe bags. When you're ready to enjoy it again, defrost in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as mentioned, keeping it fluffy and delicious.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but be sure to adjust the cooking time and liquid according to the brown rice instructions, as it usually takes longer to cook.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, if you choose gluten-free rice. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

→ Can I add protein to this dish?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas would complement this rice wonderfully.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

You can store leftover Mediterranean Tomato Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.