Low Sodium Savory Rice

Delight your taste buds with this Low Sodium Savory Rice, a healthy twist on a classic side dish that’s as flavorful as it is wholesome. This aromatic recipe combines fluffy basmati rice with a medley of vibrant vegetables, including carrots, red bell peppers, and peas, all infused with the subtle warmth of dried thyme and oregano. A splash of low sodium vegetable broth adds depth, while fresh parsley and zesty lemon zest brighten every bite. Perfect for those watching their sodium intake, this dish proves that healthy eating doesn’t have to compromise on taste. Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s an easy, one-pot wonder that's ideal as a side or a light vegetarian main course. Serve it warm and marvel at how this recipe transforms simple pantry staples into a meal bursting with color, texture, and flavor.

Nutriscore Rating: 75/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup basmati rice
• 2 cups water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 units garlic cloves, minced
• 1 medium carrot, diced
• 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
• 0.5 cup frozen peas
• 1 cup low sodium vegetable broth
• 0.5 teaspoon dried thyme
• 0.5 teaspoon dried oregano
• 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and helps the rice cook up fluffy.

Step 2

In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent.

Step 3

Add the minced garlic, diced carrot, and diced red bell pepper to the pan. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables start to soften.

Step 4

Stir in the rinsed basmati rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the rice to slightly toast in the oil and vegetables.

Step 5

Add the water, low sodium vegetable broth, frozen peas, dried thyme, dried oregano, and black pepper into the pan. Stir well to combine.

Step 6

Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pan with a lid and let the rice simmer for 15 minutes until all the liquid is absorbed and the rice is cooked through.

Step 7

Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. This allows the rice to complete cooking and remain fluffy.

Step 8

Fluff the rice gently with a fork, then stir in the chopped parsley and lemon zest for a bright flavor boost.

Step 9

Serve the low sodium savory rice warm, garnished with additional parsley if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1323.9g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	692.4

Total Fat 29.8g	0%
Saturated Fat 4.7g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.7g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 210.6mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 91.4g	0%
Dietary Fiber 11.9g	0%
Total Sugars 17.6g
Protein 16.1g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 177.0mg	0%
Iron 6.5mg	0%
Potassium 1153.7mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 38.4%

Protein: 9.2%

Carbs: 52.4%