Spring Vegetable and Rice Bake

Name: Spring Vegetable and Rice Bake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup Arborio rice; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup chopped asparagus; 1 cup peas; 1 cup diced bell peppers; 1 cup spinach, chopped; 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for sautéing

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making this Spring Vegetable and Rice Bake, especially when the weather starts to warm up. It’s a delightful way to showcase fresh, seasonal vegetables, and the combination with rice makes every bite wholesome. The vibrant colors of the vegetables really make the dish visually appealing, and the earthy flavors make it comforting. Whether served as a side dish or a main course, the creamy texture and the hint of herbs elevate this recipe to a whole new level. It's also a fantastic option for meal prep, ensuring I have healthy meals ready throughout the week!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-04T17:09:27.807Z

When I first tried this Spring Vegetable and Rice Bake, I was amazed at how each vegetable retained its distinct flavor while blending harmoniously with the rice. I experimented with the baking time and discovered that covering the dish with foil for the first part of baking helped steam the vegetables perfectly, making them tender but not mushy. The aromatic herbs I added really enhanced the overall taste, making it a delightful experience.

This recipe stands out because you can customize it based on what veggies are in season or what you have on hand. I often include asparagus and peas during Spring for freshness and a pop of color. Next time, I might try adding some roasted tomatoes for an extra burst of flavor!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Vibrant and fresh flavors that celebrate spring vegetables
Creamy texture from the baked rice that pairs perfectly with veggies
Versatile dish that works as a side or main course

      

Perfecting Your Rice

Using Arborio rice is key to achieving the creamy texture in this dish. Known for its high starch content, Arborio rice absorbs flavors beautifully while maintaining a slight al dente bite. When cooking, ensure that the rice is well-coated with the broth and stirred occasionally to prevent sticking. If you notice the rice becoming too dry, you can add a splash of additional vegetable broth during cooking to keep it moist without compromising the texture.

After the rice has cooked for approximately 20 minutes, check for doneness by tasting. The grains should be tender yet firm—this is especially important as the baking will further cook the rice. If it feels overcooked at this stage, there’s a risk of it becoming mushy once baked. By keeping a close eye on it, you can ensure the ideal texture for the final dish.

Vegetable Variations

The great thing about this dish is its versatility with seasonal vegetables. While asparagus and bell peppers are perfect for spring, feel free to incorporate other fresh vegetables like zucchini or cherry tomatoes. Keep in mind that different vegetables cook at varying rates; for instance, if including zucchini, cut it into similar sizes as your other veggies to ensure even cooking. You can also substitute the peas with green beans for added crunch.

Don’t hesitate to play with herbs and spices beyond thyme. Fresh parsley or basil can elevate the spring flavor profile even more. If you’re feeling adventurous, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a subtle kick. Experimenting with different herbs can change the dish’s character, making it a delightful experience every time you prepare it.

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients for this vibrant and healthy dish.

Ingredients

1 cup Arborio rice
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup chopped asparagus
1 cup peas
1 cup diced bell peppers
1 cup spinach, chopped
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for sautéing

Make sure to wash and chop your vegetables before starting the cooking process.

Instructions

Let's get cooking! Follow these steps for a delicious baked dish.

Cook the Rice

In a pot, combine the Arborio rice and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer covered for about 20 minutes until the rice absorbs the liquid.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until translucent. Then, add asparagus, bell peppers, and peas, cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes. Finally, stir in the chopped spinach until wilted.

Combine and Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice with sautéed vegetables, Parmesan cheese, thyme, salt, and pepper. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish and bake for 20 minutes covered with foil. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to crisp the top.

Let the dish cool slightly before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider drizzling some balsamic glaze on top before serving.

Meal Prep and Storage Tips

This Spring Vegetable and Rice Bake is an excellent option for meal prep. You can prepare it a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld even more. Just assemble and store it in the refrigerator, covered, until you’re ready to bake. When reheating, I recommend covering the dish with foil to prevent drying out, heating at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes until warmed through.

If you want to make a larger batch, feel free to double the recipe! Just ensure that your baking dish can accommodate the extra volume. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so it’s best to check for the golden edges after the recommended baking time.

Serving Suggestions

This Bake pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or crusty bread, making it a complete meal that’s both light and satisfying. For more protein, you can serve grilled chicken or baked fish alongside it, complementing the vegetable flavors with protein-rich options. Alternatively, it can stand alone as a hearty vegetarian or vegan meal—simply omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute it with a dairy-free option.

For an extra layer of flavor, consider drizzling some balsamic glaze over the top before serving. This adds a touch of sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the earthiness of the vegetables. Garnishing with fresh herbs, like basil or cilantro, just before serving can also enhance the dish’s visual appeal and freshness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of Arborio?

Yes, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time and liquid amount as brown rice takes longer to cook.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to incorporate seasonal vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or mushrooms based on your preference.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance, just reheat it in the oven before serving.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

It's gluten-free if you ensure that the vegetable broth used is certified gluten-free.