Smoky Paprika Veggie Rice Skillet

Name: Smoky Paprika Veggie Rice Skillet
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup rice (brown or white); 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 zucchini, sliced; 2 cups spinach, chopped; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of 1 lemon

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I love whipping up this Smoky Paprika Veggie Rice Skillet whenever I want a satisfying and vibrant dish without spending hours in the kitchen. With the right blend of spices and fresh vegetables, this skillet meal becomes a comforting yet healthy choice. I’ve experimented with various combinations of veggies, but I find that bell peppers, zucchini, and spinach create the perfect medley. The addition of smoked paprika brings a depth of flavor that’s simply irresistible, making it a weeknight favorite for my family.

Created by

Anya Coleman

Last updated on 2026-01-18T03:13:15.295Z

Creating the perfect smoky paprika veggie rice skillet has been a flavorful journey for me. I started by exploring different spice blends and landed on smoked paprika as a standout ingredient. Its richness elevates the dish, and I love how it complements the fresh vegetables. I also discovered that cooking the rice in vegetable broth instead of water enhances the flavor significantly.

Another tip I've learned is to sauté the vegetables just right. Cooking them until they're tender yet still vibrant helps preserve their natural sweetness. Adding a squeeze of lemon at the end brightens everything up, and I always have a little extra smoked paprika on hand to sprinkle for presentation and taste.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty and satisfying with a perfect blend of spices
Quick and easy cleanup with just one skillet
Versatile recipe that you can customize with your favorite veggies

      

Perfecting Your Rice

The choice of rice can significantly influence the texture of your Smoky Paprika Veggie Rice Skillet. While white rice cooks faster and yields a softer texture, brown rice adds a nutty flavor and a chewy texture. If using brown rice, remember it requires about 10-15 minutes more cooking time. Always rinse the rice under cold water before cooking to remove excess starch, which can make it gummy, ensuring each grain remains fluffy and distinct in the final dish.

Always keep an eye on your broth while the rice cooks. When it begins to bubble vigorously, reduce the heat immediately to low and cover it tightly to trap steam. This technique ensures the rice cooks evenly. If the rice isn’t tender after the suggested cooking time, add a splash of broth or water, cover again, and simmer for a few more minutes until fully cooked.

Vegetable Variations and Seasoning

The vegetable medley in this dish can easily be adjusted to your preference or seasonal availability. For a touch of sweetness, consider substituting the bell peppers with carrots or adding sweet potatoes for a heartier meal. If you're looking for a spicier kick, swap in jalapeños or add a pinch of red pepper flakes. Keep in mind that denser vegetables like mushrooms may require a longer sauté time. Just cook them first before adding quicker-cooking veggies like spinach.

Smoked paprika is a key player in this recipe, providing a warm, smoky flavor profile. If you find yourself without it, you can use regular paprika combined with a bit of liquid smoke or even a touch of cayenne for heat. Balancing the flavors is crucial; taste your skillet prior to serving so you can adjust the salt and pepper to compliment the vegetables’ natural sweetness.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Smoky Paprika Veggie Rice Skillet:

Ingredients

1 cup rice (brown or white)
2 cups vegetable broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 zucchini, sliced
2 cups spinach, chopped
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 1 lemon

Make sure to have these ingredients ready for an exciting cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Smoky Paprika Veggie Rice Skillet:

Cook the Rice

In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Add the rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes until cooked.

Sauté the Vegetables

While the rice is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking until fragrant. Then add the bell pepper and zucchini, sautéing for about 5-7 minutes until tender.

Combine and Season

Stir in the cooked rice, chopped spinach, smoked paprika, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well, allowing the spinach to wilt.

Finish it Off

Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice. Serve hot and enjoy your vibrant skillet meal!

Enjoy your Smoky Paprika Veggie Rice Skillet, bursting with flavors and colors!

Pro Tips

For a protein boost, consider adding chickpeas or cubed tofu to the skillet. They integrate well with the flavors, making the dish even more nutritious.

Make-Ahead Tips and Storage

This Veggie Rice Skillet is remarkably versatile when it comes to make-ahead options. You can cook the rice and sauté the vegetables separately, storing them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat in the skillet and combine with the spinach and spices for a quick meal that tastes fresh. This time-saving approach is perfect for busy weeknights.

If you're lucky enough to have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the dish—just ensure it’s fully cooled before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be thawed overnight in the refrigerator and reheated in a skillet with a splash of vegetable broth to restore moisture.

Serving Suggestions

This Smoky Paprika Veggie Rice Skillet serves beautifully on its own, but there are many ways to elevate the meal. Consider topping it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for added freshness. A dollop of yogurt or a drizzle of tahini can introduce creaminess and a slightly tangy flavor that complements the spices perfectly.

Another lovely serving idea is to pair this dish with a green salad or a light side of roasted vegetables. If you have leftovers, feel free to transform them into delicious stuffed peppers or wraps for lunch the next day, adding a layer of melted cheese for extra indulgence.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of rice?

Yes, you can use quinoa or any other grain, but make sure to adjust the cooking time and liquid ratio as needed.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free broth and check the rice packaging for any hidden gluten.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftover skillet rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.

→ Can I add more spices?

Absolutely! Feel free to explore with cayenne pepper for heat or oregano for a Mediterranean flair.