Homemade Instant Rice: Italian Tomato & Herb Recipe

Updated at: 12/02/2025

Craving a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal? Look no further than this Homemade Instant Rice: Italian Tomato & Herb recipe! This dish elevates the humble instant rice packet into a vibrant and delicious side or even a light main course, perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings. Forget bland, boring rice; this recipe bursts with the fresh, bright taste of sun-ripened tomatoes and fragrant herbs, all achieved with minimal effort and readily available ingredients. You'll be amazed at how easily you can transform a simple pantry staple into a culinary delight.

Imagine the comforting aroma of simmering tomatoes mingling with the earthy fragrance of basil and oregano. This recipe is a testament to the power of simple ingredients, expertly combined to create something truly special. Ready to experience the magic for yourself? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions and create this sensational Tomato Herb Rice together!

Tools Needed

  • Pot
  • Measuring cup

Ingredients

  • Diced Tomatoes: 1 (28 ounce) can or 800ml
  • Dehydrated Celery
  • Dehydrated Banana Peppers
  • Dehydrated Sweet Peppers
  • Sweet Onion: 1 medium
  • Homemade Instant Rice (infused with vegetable broth)
  • Butter: 2 tablespoons or 1.5 tablespoons
  • Homemade Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1. Sauté Aromatics and Create the Tomato Base

  • Melt butter in a pot. Add and sauté the onion until softened.
  • Add the can of diced tomatoes and homemade Italian seasoning.
  • Add the dehydrated banana peppers and sweet peppers to the pot.
Melt butter in a pot. Add and sauté the onion until softened.Add the can of diced tomatoes and homemade Italian seasoning.Add the dehydrated banana peppers and sweet peppers to the pot.
Sauté Aromatics and Create the Tomato Base

Step 2. Prepare and Incorporate Vegetables and Rice

  • Soften dehydrated celery by pouring boiling water over it.
  • Measure the instant rice using the empty tomato can (three-quarters full).
  • Drain the water from the softened celery and add it to the pot.
  • Bring the mixture to a boil. Add the instant rice.
Soften dehydrated celery by pouring boiling water over it.Measure the instant rice using the empty tomato can (three-quarters full).
Prepare and Incorporate Vegetables and Rice

Step 3. Simmer and Adjust Consistency

  • Let it simmer for a few minutes.
  • Stir and add more boiling water if necessary to achieve desired consistency.
Let it simmer for a few minutes.Stir and add more boiling water if necessary to achieve desired consistency.
Simmer and Adjust Consistency

Step 4. Rest and Serve

  • Bring back to a boil, then turn off the heat and let it sit until serving time.
Bring back to a boil, then turn off the heat and let it sit until serving time.
Rest and Serve

Read more: Grilled Stuffed Squid with Venere Black Rice & Buttered Vegetables

Tips

  • If using fresh celery, adjust the amount accordingly.
  • The amount of water needed for the instant rice might vary. Add boiling water as needed to reach your desired consistency.

Nutrition

  • N/A

FAQs

1. Can I use different herbs besides basil and oregano?

Absolutely! Experiment with thyme, rosemary, parsley, or a mix of your favorites. Dried herbs work well too, just use slightly less.

2. What kind of tomatoes should I use?

Canned crushed tomatoes are easiest, but you can also use diced tomatoes or even fresh tomatoes (if you finely chop them).

3. Can I make this ahead of time?

It's best served fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Gently reheat before serving.


This simple yet flavorful Homemade Instant Rice: Italian Tomato & Herb recipe is a testament to how easily everyday ingredients can be transformed into a delicious meal. From weeknight dinners to casual gatherings, this recipe is a versatile and satisfying option that's sure to become a new favorite. Enjoy the burst of fresh Italian flavors!