MediterraneanMainEasy

Black Rice Grain Bowl with Tahini

Name: Black Rice Grain Bowl with Tahini
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1.5 cups Agriko black rice; 3 cups vegetable broth; 1/4 cup tahini; 2 tbsp lemon juice; 2 cups roasted vegetables (zucchini, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes); 1/2 cup cucumber, diced; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds; 3 cloves garlic, minced

Prep 15 mins

Cook 30 mins

Total 45 mins

Serves 4

Ingredients

1.5 cups Agriko black rice
3 cups vegetable broth
1/4 cup tahini
2 tbsp lemon juice
2 cups roasted vegetables (zucchini, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes)
1/2 cup cucumber, diced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup pomegranate seeds
3 cloves garlic, minced

Instructions

Rinse Agriko black rice thoroughly under cold running water until the water runs clear, then drain well.
In a medium saucepan, bring vegetable broth to a boil. Add rinsed black rice, stir, then reduce heat to low and cover. Simmer for 25-30 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
While rice cooks, prepare the tahini dressing by whisking together tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, and 3-4 tablespoons of warm water until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Toss your choice of vegetables (zucchini, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes) with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast at 400°F for 20-25 minutes until caramelized and tender.
Once rice is cooked, fluff with a fork and divide among four bowls. Arrange roasted vegetables and fresh cucumber on top of each rice portion.
Drizzle each bowl generously with creamy tahini dressing, then garnish with fresh parsley and pomegranate seeds. Serve immediately while rice is warm.

Chef's Tip

Make the tahini dressing ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For extra creaminess, add a splash of plant-based milk when drizzling. Agriko black rice's slightly nutty flavor pairs beautifully with the earthiness of tahini—do not skip rinsing the rice to remove excess starch and maintain its vibrant color.

Nutrition Highlights

Rich in anthocyanins—powerful antioxidants that give black rice its deep purple color
Excellent source of dietary fiber for digestive health
Complete plant-based protein when paired with tahini
High in iron and minerals for sustained energy