One-Pan Cozy Tomato Bean Rice

Instructions

1. 1

   Warm the olive oil in a large covered skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for 3–4 minutes, until softened. Stir in the garlic, smoked paprika, and Italian seasoning for 30 seconds—this wakes up their flavor.

2. 2

   Add the rice and stir for 1 minute, coating every grain with the seasoned oil.

3. 3

   Pour in the tomatoes and broth. Add the beans, salt, pepper, and frozen vegetables if using. Stir well and bring to a gentle boil.

4. 4

   Cover, reduce the heat to low, and simmer for 18–20 minutes, until the rice is tender. Don’t peek too often, sweetheart; lifting the lid lets the steam escape.

5. 5

   Turn off the heat and let the skillet rest, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff gently with a fork.

6. 6

   Sprinkle with cheese if desired, then serve with parsley, hot sauce, or a squeeze of lemon. Taste and add salt—beans and broth can vary quite a bit.