Mediterranean Tomato Rice Skillet with Tomatino Pepperino

Mediterranean Tomato Rice Skillet: An Easy One Pan Mediterranean Rice Recipe

When you need a simple meal that delivers big flavor, this Mediterranean Tomato Rice Skillet is the perfect solution. Combining tender rice, tomatoes, chickpeas, spinach, feta cheese, and aromatic herbs, this one pan recipe creates a satisfying dinner that is both comforting and full of vibrant Mediterranean character.

What makes this Tomato Rice Skillet truly special is Wurzpott Tomatino Pepperino seasoning. Crafted with tomato flakes, garlic, onion, paprika, basil, oregano, and subtle chili notes, Tomatino Pepperino brings rich Italian inspired flavor to every bite. The seasoning develops depth as it cooks with olive oil, garlic, onions, and tomato paste, creating a savory foundation that transforms simple ingredients into a memorable meal.

One of the reasons this Mediterranean Rice Recipe works so well is the balance of flavors and textures. The rice absorbs the seasoned broth and tomato flavors while remaining tender and fluffy. Chickpeas add hearty texture and plant based protein, while fresh spinach contributes color and freshness. Crumbled feta cheese adds a creamy, tangy finish that pairs beautifully with the tomato forward flavor profile. A splash of fresh lemon juice brightens the dish and helps tie all the ingredients together.

Tomatino Pepperino serves as the centerpiece of the recipe. The combination of basil, oregano, garlic, onion, and tomato creates an unmistakably Italian inspired flavor profile while complementing the Mediterranean ingredients throughout the dish. Tomatino Pepperino makes it easy to achieve complex flavor without relying on a long list of seasonings.

This Italian Inspired Rice Dish is versatile enough to serve as a complete vegetarian dinner or alongside grilled chicken, shrimp, lamb, roasted vegetables, pita bread, or a fresh salad. It is also an excellent meal prep option because the flavors continue to develop after cooking.

If you are searching for a wholesome and satisfying dinner that is easy to prepare, this Mediterranean Tomato Rice Skillet is a recipe worth adding to your collection. With tender rice, hearty chickpeas, vibrant vegetables, creamy feta, and the bold flavor of Tomatino Pepperino, every serving delivers the perfect combination of comfort and Mediterranean inspired flavor.

Mediterranean Tomato Rice Skillet with Tomatino Pepperino

Wurzpott Chef

Servings

4

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time

30 minutes

Calories

470

Cuisine

Mediterranean Inspired

Category

Main Course

This Mediterranean Tomato Rice Skillet combines tender rice, tomatoes, chickpeas, spinach, feta cheese, and the bold Italian inspired flavors of Wurzpott Tomatino Pepperino seasoning. Featuring roasted tomato notes, garlic, onion, basil, oregano, and a touch of chili, this one pan meal delivers rich flavor, wholesome ingredients, and satisfying texture in every bite. Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or family dinners, this Mediterranean Rice Recipe offers an easy way to enjoy vibrant Italian inspired comfort food with simple pantry staples.

Mediterranean Tomato Rice Skillet with Tomatino Pepperino

Ingredients

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 small yellow onion, diced

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 cup long grain white rice

  • 2 1/2 to 3 tsp Tomatino Pepperino seasoning

  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt, plus more to taste

  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

  • 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes optional

  • 2 tbsp tomato paste

  • 1 can diced tomatoes, drained slightly (14.5 oz)

  • 2 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth

  • 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed (15 oz)

  • 2 cups fresh spinach

  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese, plus more for garnish

  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

  • 1 tbsp lemon juice

Directions

  1. Heat a large deep skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Add the olive oil.

  2. Add the diced onion and cook for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and lightly golden.

  3. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds while stirring constantly until fragrant.

  4. Add the rice and stir continuously for 1 to 2 minutes to lightly toast the rice and coat it in the oil.

  5. Add the Tomatino Pepperino seasoning, kosher salt, black pepper, optional crushed red pepper flakes, and tomato paste. Stir for 30 seconds to bloom the spices and lightly caramelize the tomato paste.

  6. Add the diced tomatoes and broth. Stir thoroughly to combine.

  7. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 16 to 18 minutes until the rice is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.

  8. Stir in the chickpeas and spinach. Cover again and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the chickpeas are heated through.

  9. Remove from the heat and allow the skillet to rest covered for 5 minutes to finish absorbing excess moisture.

  10. Fluff the rice gently with a fork. Stir in the feta cheese, parsley, and lemon juice.

  11. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

  12. Garnish with additional feta cheese, parsley, cracked black pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil before serving.

  13. Serve with grilled chicken, shrimp skewers, lamb, roasted vegetables, pita bread, cucumber salad, or hummus.

Back to blog