Are you ready to embark on a culinary journey that will tantalize your taste buds and revolutionize your meal prep? This Roasted Vegetable and Brown Rice Salad with Harissa Dressing is not just another recipe—it's a vibrant, nutritious masterpiece that combines the earthy richness of brown rice, the caramelized sweetness of roasted vegetables, and the bold, spicy kick of harissa dressing. Perfect for health-conscious food lovers, busy professionals, and anyone craving a restaurant-quality meal that can be prepared in under an hour!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup brown rice, cooked
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, carrots)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon harissa paste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cook brown rice according to package instructions. Typically, combine 1 cup rice with 2 cups water, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered for about 35-40 minutes until tender.
- While rice is cooking, wash and chop mixed vegetables into uniform 1-inch pieces. Bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots should be cut into roughly similar sizes to ensure even roasting.
- Toss chopped vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl until evenly coated.
- Spread vegetables in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not overcrowded to allow proper roasting.
- Roast vegetables in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until edges are slightly caramelized and vegetables are tender.
- In a small bowl, whisk together harissa paste and lemon juice to create the dressing.
- Once rice is cooked and vegetables are roasted, combine them in a large serving bowl.
- Drizzle harissa dressing over the rice and vegetables, gently tossing to combine and coat evenly.
- If using, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the top before serving.
- Serve warm or at room temperature as a nutritious and flavorful salad.
Tips
- Vegetable Cutting Technique: Cut vegetables into uniform 1-inch pieces to ensure even roasting and consistent texture.
- Prevent Overcrowding: Use a large baking sheet and spread vegetables in a single layer to achieve that perfect caramelization, avoiding steaming.
- Rice Pro Tip: Rinse brown rice before cooking to remove excess starch and achieve a fluffier texture.
- Harissa Dressing Hack: Adjust the amount of harissa paste to control the spice level according to your preference.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: This salad tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep and lunch boxes.
- Customization Options: Feel free to swap vegetables based on seasonal availability or personal preference.
- Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or tofu for extra protein if desired.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 172kcal
Carbohydrates: 19g
Protein: 4g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 6mg
