Herb Roasted Veggie Rice Tray

Name: Herb Roasted Veggie Rice Tray
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup jasmine rice; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 yellow bell pepper, diced; 1 zucchini, sliced; 1 cup broccoli florets; 1 red onion, sliced; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 teaspoons dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Busy Recipes

I love creating vibrant dishes that not only taste amazing but are also visually appealing. The Herb Roasted Veggie Rice Tray is one of those recipes that brings the farm fresh flavors directly to my table. The combination of roasted vegetables with fragrant herbs and fluffy rice makes for a delightful meal that can be served as a main or side dish. Every bite bursts with flavor, and it’s easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Created by

Wendy Ashbourne

Last updated on 2026-01-21T19:46:35.444Z

When I first made the Herb Roasted Veggie Rice Tray, I was amazed at how something so simple could taste so good. I experimented with different herbs and vegetables, and found that rosemary and bell peppers paired beautifully, enhancing the dish’s overall flavor. This recipe is versatile; you can customize it based on the vegetables in season or your personal preferences.

I also learned that roasting vegetables at high heat allows them to caramelize, which adds a depth of flavor that boiling simply can't replicate. Don't rush this step; giving them time to brown results in a dish that's both hearty and satisfying.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A colorful mix of seasonal veggies for a vibrant presentation
Fragrant herbs elevate the overall flavor profile
Perfectly roasted to bring out natural sweetness
Quick and easy to prepare, great for any occasion

      

Selecting the Right Vegetables

The Herb Roasted Veggie Rice Tray thrives on a colorful and diverse selection of seasonal vegetables. While the recipe calls for red and yellow bell peppers, zucchini, broccoli, and red onion, feel free to customize based on what you have available. Carrots, cauliflower, or even asparagus can add depth and character. Seasonal freshness contributes to enhanced flavor and texture, so aim for a mix of colors and shapes that appeal visually and nutritionally.

When preparing the vegetables, uniformity in size is key. Aim to cut vegetables into similar-sized pieces, about 1-inch in thickness, to ensure even roasting. This prevents smaller pieces from burning while larger ones remain undercooked. If you're using heartier veggies like carrots, consider parboiling them for a few minutes to match the cooking time of the more delicate vegetables.

Herb Selection and Influence

Herbs play a pivotal role in elevating the flavor of the Herb Roasted Veggie Rice Tray. Dried oregano and thyme are ideal for this recipe, but don't hesitate to explore fresh herbs like basil or parsley for added brightness. When using fresh herbs, triple the amount since their flavor is less concentrated compared to dried. To release their flavor, add fresh herbs during the last 5 minutes of roasting or sprinkle them on just before serving for a pop of freshness.

Keep an eye on how the herbs interact with the roasting process. Dried herbs can become slightly more pronounced with heat, while fresh ones might mellow. Adjust the quantity based on your palate preferences and cooking method: if you prefer a milder flavor, consider adding them fresh at the end instead of tossing them with the vegetables before roasting.

Storage and Reheating Tips

One of the best parts of the Herb Roasted Veggie Rice Tray is its versatility for meal prep. After cooking, allow the dish to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors marry together beautifully, enhancing the dish’s appeal as leftovers. To keep everything fresh, you might want to store the rice and veggies separately, which can help maintain texture and prevent sogginess.

When ready to enjoy, reheat the rice tray in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave individual servings; just be aware that this can make the vegetables slightly softer. For a crispy finish, consider broiling the tray for a minute or two just before serving, watching closely to avoid burning.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before you start cooking for a smoother experience.

For the Rice Tray

1 cup jasmine rice
2 cups vegetable broth
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 yellow bell pepper, diced
1 zucchini, sliced
1 cup broccoli florets
1 red onion, sliced
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 teaspoons dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to adjust the quantities of your vegetables based on personal preferences.

Instructions

Cooking Steps

Follow these simple steps to create your Herb Roasted Veggie Rice Tray.

Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure that the vegetables roast properly.

Cook the Rice

In a saucepan, combine jasmine rice and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15 minutes or until the rice is fluffy.

Prepare the Vegetables

In a large bowl, toss the diced bell peppers, zucchini, broccoli, and red onion with olive oil, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.

Roast the Vegetables

Spread the seasoned vegetables on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until tender and caramelized.

Combine and Serve

Once the rice is done and the vegetables are roasted, combine them in a large serving dish. Serve warm and enjoy!

This dish can be served warm or at room temperature, making it versatile for any occasion!

Pro Tips

Try adding a sprinkle of feta cheese or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an added flavor kick.

Serving Suggestions

This Herb Roasted Veggie Rice Tray can easily shine as a main or a side dish. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with a protein like grilled chicken, tofu, or chickpeas. The versatility of the rice tray means you can tweak the accompanying side, using it as a backdrop for a fresh green salad or crispy bread for added texture and variety.

For entertaining, serve the rice tray in a shallow dish, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, a drizzle of balsamic glaze, or a squeeze of lemon to brighten the flavors. This not only enhances the dish but also adds a visual element that catches the eye of your guests, inviting them to enjoy the meal.

Flavor Variations

Feel free to experiment with different grains based on your dietary needs or personal preferences. Quinoa, farro, or even brown rice can be substituted for jasmine rice in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time according to the grain you choose. For example, quinoa generally cooks faster—about 12-15 minutes—so keep that in mind.

Additionally, consider using different herb profiles by incorporating spices such as cumin or paprika for a smoked flavor, or adding a kick with chili flakes. These variations can give the dish a completely different character and allow it to suit various cuisines and taste preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with your favorite vegetables or whatever you have on hand.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, this recipe is completely vegan as it uses vegetable broth and plant-based ingredients.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftover rice tray in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the vegetables and rice in advance and simply combine and heat before serving.