The Secret Ingredient for Easy, Healthy Meals (Any Time of Day)

By , SparkPeople Blogger
I love this simple ingredient and eat it several times a week.

It's easy to cook, tasty to eat, and one of the most versatile foods in the healthy cook's pantry.

In my house, the secret to getting any meal off to a better start is...

Brown rice!

Brown Rice for Breakfast
At breakfast, mix rice leftover from last night's dinner (or a convenient ready-to-eat pouch) with eggs and your favorite vegetables for a heartier take on an omelet. Sprinkle cheese on top and broil until melted.

If you prefer a sweeter start to your day, serve your brown rice as you would oatmeal. (Here's a recipe to get you started.)

Brown Rice for Lunch
For lunch, rice helps turn random ingredients into a meal to remember:
  • Sprinkle some rice on a salad to give it texture and a dose of whole grains
  • Mix brown rice into your favorite canned soup
  • Layer it with salsa, canned beans and cheese for a no-fuss dish that can be made in the microwave!
Brown Rice for Dinner
At dinner, the sky is the limit with brown rice. I swap it into casseroles, stir in cilantro and lime for a jazzed-up side dish, and serve it with stews to sop up all those delicious juices. The pouches of brown rice or instant varieties turn casseroles into quick meals, and they help fill the void on the plate when you realize dinner's on in five… and you need a side dish!
 
Have I sold you yet on the versatility of my favorite whole grain? What's your favorite way to enjoy brown rice at breakfast, lunch or dinner?
 
These recipes were provided by our sponsor, UNCLE BEN’S®

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