Save to Pinterest A simple, comforting one-pan meal of tender rice simmered with juicy tomatoes, onion, and a hint of garlic—perfect for busy weeknights.
I first made this tomato-rice skillet dinner on a hectic Monday when everyone wanted something filling but not fussy. Its simplicity always saves the evening and brings everyone together around the table.
Ingredients
- Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Diced tomatoes: 1 can (14 oz/400 g), with juices
- Long-grain white rice: 1 cup (200 g), rinsed
- Vegetable broth or water: 2 cups (480 ml)
- Salt: 1 tsp (or to taste)
- Black pepper: 1/2 tsp
- Dried oregano or Italian seasoning: 1/2 tsp
- Olive oil (optional): 2 tbsp
- Fresh parsley: For garnish
Instructions
- Sauté aromatics:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until soft and translucent.
- Add garlic:
- Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Toast rice:
- Stir in the rice and toast for 1–2 minutes until the edges become slightly translucent.
- Combine and simmer:
- Add diced tomatoes (with juices), vegetable broth, salt, pepper, and oregano. Stir well to combine.
- Cook rice:
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18–20 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Rest and fluff:
- Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
- Garnish and serve:
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot.
Save to Pinterest My kids always ask for seconds, and sometimes even bring friends over for this tomato-rice skillet. We love to top it with a sprinkle of extra parsley on special occasions.
Required Tools
Large skillet with lid, chefs knife, cutting board, measuring cups and spoons
Nutritional Information
Calories: 210, Total Fat: 4 g, Carbohydrates: 40 g, Protein: 4 g per serving
Serving Suggestions
This tomato-rice skillet pairs well with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Save to Pinterest Enjoy this comfort meal straight from the skillet. Leftovers make a tasty lunch the next day!
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, brown rice can be used, but it requires a longer simmering time (about 10–15 minutes extra) and additional broth to ensure it cooks through properly.
- → How can I add more protein to this dish?
Adding canned beans or cooked chickpeas to the skillet with the tomatoes is an easy way to boost protein content and add texture.
- → What type of seasoning works best in this dish?
Dried oregano or Italian seasoning complements the tomato and rice flavors well, but feel free to experiment with herbs like basil or thyme.
- → Is this dish suitable for vegan and gluten-free diets?
Yes, the combination of vegetables, rice, and vegetable broth makes it naturally vegan and gluten-free. Just verify the broth used is gluten-free if store-bought.
- → Can I make this dish spicy?
Absolutely! Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes while cooking enhances the flavor with a pleasant heat.