Simple Food Recipes with Basic Ingredients

Name: Simple Food Recipes with Basic Ingredients
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups of rice; 1 tablespoon of olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 can of diced tomatoes; 1 teaspoon of salt; 1/2 teaspoon of pepper; 1 teaspoon of dried oregano; 4 cups of vegetable broth

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

Created by

Talia Preston

Last updated on 2026-01-04T11:37:08.897Z

This recipe is designed to showcase how simple ingredients can come together to create delicious meals. Perfect for busy weeknights or anyone new to cooking!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy to prepare with common ingredients
Perfect for beginner cooks looking to build confidence
Versatile recipes that you can customize to your liking

      

The Joy of Cooking with Basic Ingredients

Cooking with basic ingredients not only simplifies meal preparation but also encourages creativity in the kitchen. By using staple items you likely already have on hand, you can whip up delicious dishes without the need for extensive planning or shopping. This recipe showcases how simple components can come together to create a satisfying meal, making it perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs looking for a quick fix.

Moreover, using basic ingredients often leads to healthier meals. When you control what goes into your dishes, you can avoid unnecessary additives and preservatives typically found in processed foods. This approach not only benefits your health but also enhances the flavor of your cooking, allowing the natural tastes of fresh ingredients to shine through.

Cooking Tips for Beginners

For those new to cooking, starting with simple recipes can be incredibly empowering. This recipe encourages you to practice essential skills like chopping, sautéing, and simmering, all of which are fundamental techniques in cooking. As you become comfortable with these steps, you'll build confidence and be more inclined to experiment with different flavors and ingredients in the future.

Don’t be afraid to make this recipe your own. You can add your favorite vegetables, swap out the rice for quinoa, or even introduce proteins like chicken or beans. Personalizing your meals not only makes cooking more enjoyable but also helps you discover new tastes and combinations that you love.

Meal Prep Made Easy

This recipe is an excellent choice for meal prepping. With minimal effort, you can prepare a large batch that lasts several days, providing you with easy lunches or dinners throughout the week. Simply store the cooked dish in airtight containers and refrigerate. When you're ready to eat, just reheat and enjoy a wholesome meal in minutes.

Additionally, the versatility of this dish means you can easily change it up throughout the week. For instance, you can serve it with a side salad one day, then mix it with a dollop of yogurt or some fresh herbs the next. This way, you won’t get bored of eating the same thing every day, while still enjoying the convenience of pre-prepared meals.

Ingredients

Basic Ingredients

2 cups of rice
1 tablespoon of olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 can of diced tomatoes
1 teaspoon of salt
1/2 teaspoon of pepper
1 teaspoon of dried oregano
4 cups of vegetable broth

Gather all your ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Steps

Prepare the Ingredients

Start by chopping the onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.

Sauté Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced bell pepper. Sauté until the vegetables are soft, about 5 minutes.

Add Remaining Ingredients

Stir in the diced tomatoes, rice, salt, pepper, oregano, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil.

Simmer

Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed the broth.

Serve

Fluff the rice with a fork and serve hot. Enjoy your simple meal!

Feel free to add your favorite proteins or vegetables for variation!

Nutritional Benefits

In addition to being simple and delicious, this recipe is packed with nutritional benefits. The combination of vegetables and rice not only provides a hearty meal but also offers a variety of vitamins and minerals. Bell peppers are rich in vitamin C, while tomatoes add antioxidants that are beneficial for overall health.

Moreover, using vegetable broth instead of water enhances the flavor profile without adding extra calories. This means you can enjoy a filling dish that supports your dietary needs, making it an ideal option for anyone looking to eat healthier without compromising on taste.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Proper storage is key to maintaining the freshness of your cooked dish. Allow the rice to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. When stored correctly in the refrigerator, it can last up to four days. For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions, which can be easily reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop.

When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to help restore moisture and prevent the rice from drying out. This simple tip will ensure that your meal remains delicious and enjoyable, even on the second or third day.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time to about 45 minutes.

→ What can I substitute for vegetable broth?

You can use chicken broth or water with a bit of seasoning if you prefer.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you ensure your broth and other ingredients are gluten-free.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it in advance and reheat it when ready to serve.