Mediterranean Diet Spicy Fried Red Rice

Elevate your weeknight dinners with this Mediterranean Diet Spicy Fried Red Rice—a vibrant and nutritious take on classic fried rice with a zesty Mediterranean twist. This wholesome recipe features nutty red rice infused with smoky paprika, red chili flakes, and earthy cumin, all brought to life with the brightness of fresh lemon juice and parsley. Sautéed garlic, juicy cherry tomatoes, and tender baby spinach add delightful layers of flavor and texture, while optional crumbled feta provides a creamy finish. Perfectly balanced and packed with nutrients, this one-pan dish is ideal for meal prep or serving as a hearty vegetarian main course. Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s a health-conscious, flavor-packed homage to Mediterranean cuisine!

Nutriscore Rating: 69/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:35 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup red rice
• 2 cups water
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon red chili flakes
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 0.5 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 cups baby spinach, roughly chopped
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 0.25 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the red rice under cold water until the water runs clear.

Step 2

In a medium saucepan, combine the red rice and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 25-30 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.

Step 3

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

Step 4

Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.

Step 5

Stir in the red chili flakes, smoked paprika, and ground cumin, allowing the spices to bloom for about 30 seconds.

Step 6

Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften and release their juices.

Step 7

Toss in the cooked red rice and stir to coat it evenly with the spice mixture.

Step 8

Mix in the baby spinach, cooking for 2-3 minutes until wilted.

Step 9

Drizzle the lemon juice over the rice and season with salt and black pepper. Stir well to combine.

Step 10

Remove the skillet from the heat and garnish with fresh parsley.

Step 11

Optionally, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the top before serving for added creaminess.

Step 12

Serve warm and enjoy your Mediterranean Diet Spicy Fried Red Rice!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1010.8g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1332.4

Total Fat 61.6g	0%
Saturated Fat 15.6g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 4.0g
Cholesterol 53.4mg	0%
Sodium 1920.4mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 168.5g	0%
Dietary Fiber 13.8g	0%
Total Sugars 5.9g
Protein 30.9g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 438.6mg	0%
Iron 8.1mg	0%
Potassium 839.5mg	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: 41.0%

Protein: 9.1%

Carbs: 49.9%