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Top-down view of a rustic ceramic bowl filled with Mediterranean Rice and Beans, topped with vibrant parsley and dill sprigs. (Mediterranean Rice and Beans)

Mediterranean Rice and Beans with Fresh Herbs and Lemon

This Mediterranean Rice and Beans recipe features fluffy long-grain rice, buttery chickpeas, and a vibrant blend of fresh dill and parsley. A healthy, gluten-free meal that is perfect for easy weeknight dinners or meal prep.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 cups
Course: Dinner, Lunch, Side Dish
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 310
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Base Ingredients
  • 1.5 cups (300g) long-grain white rice Rinsed until water runs clear
  • 2.25 cups (540ml) water For cooking rice
  • 1.5 cups (250g) cooked chickpeas Canned or freshly cooked
Aromatics & Herbs
  • 1 small (100g) red onion Thinly sliced and softened
  • 1 cup (30g) fresh flat-leaf parsley Finely chopped
  • 0.5 cup (15g) fresh dill sprigs Torn or roughly chopped
  • 2 wedges fresh lemon For serving
Seasoning
  • 1 tsp (2g) cracked black pepper
  • 0.5 tsp (1g) dried red chili flakes

Equipment

  • 1 Medium Pot with Lid For steaming the rice.
  • 1 Small skillet For softening the red onions.
  • 1 Large Mixing Bowl For folding the ingredients together.

Method
 

Cook the Rice
  1. Rinse the long-grain rice under cold water until clear. Combine with water and salt in a pot; bring to a boil.
  2. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes. Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 10 minutes to finish steaming.
Prepare Mix-ins
  1. Sauté sliced red onions in a small skillet with olive oil over medium-low heat until translucent and softened.
Assemble the Dish
  1. In a large bowl, gently fold the fluffy rice with chickpeas, softened onions, parsley, and dill. Sprinkle with black pepper and chili flakes.
  2. Serve warm with fresh lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the top.

Notes

Always rinse your rice to ensure the grains stay separate and fluffy.
Use only fresh herbs for the best flavor and visual impact.