Lemon Pepper Veggies And Rice
A vibrant and wholesome dish featuring tender vegetables seasoned with lemon pepper, served over fluffy rice and topped with Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it combines bright citrus flavors with savory elements, appealing to both veggie lovers and rice fans alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook rice according to package directions.
- When rice is almost done, begin cooking the veggies.
- In a large covered saucepan, melt the low-fat margarine or butter.
- Add sliced bell peppers, sliced crookneck squash, and sliced onions.
- Sprinkle lemon pepper seasoning over the vegetables, tossing to coat evenly.
- Cover and cook over medium heat for five minutes.
- Uncover and check for tenderness.
- Stir the vegetables, turn heat to low, and continue cooking uncovered until vegetables are done, stirring occasionally.
- Pour cooked rice onto a serving plate.
- Top the rice with the cooked vegetables and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
- Serve with garlic bread and any meat if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a vibrant flavor, consider adding garlic or fresh herbs like basil or parsley to the veggies. If you don't have Uncle Ben's rice, any long-grain rice will work, but cooking times may vary. You can also use fresh lemon juice instead of lemon pepper for a fresher taste. If you want a bit more protein, toss in some chickpeas or cooked chicken.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish alongside garlic bread for a delightful meal. It pairs beautifully with any meat, such as grilled chicken or fish, making it versatile for different tastes. For a vegetarian twist, enjoy it with a side salad or explore more vegetarian recipes for a complete dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat the veggies and rice in a microwave, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out, or warm them in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lemon Pepper Veggies And Rice contains roughly 360 calories, with 9g protein, 61g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is a good source of protein (19% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (11% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen vegetables can be a great time-saver and still provide good flavor. Just add them to the pan at the same time as the fresh ones and cook until heated through. Adjust the cooking time slightly, as frozen vegetables may release more moisture.
What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
If you don’t have Parmesan cheese, you can use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option, or substitute with any hard cheese you prefer, like Pecorino or Grana Padano. This will give a similar salty flavor to your dish.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider including red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while cooking the vegetables. You could also sauté some diced jalapeños with the onion, which will enhance the flavor and spice level of the dish.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).