Cajun Dirty Rice with Zesty Dressing~

Cajun Dirty Rice with Zesty Dressing — a spicy, satisfying meal that brings southern heat with a fresh, tangy twist! 🌶️🍚

🌶️🍚 Cajun Dirty Rice with Zesty Dressing

A hearty one-pan dish featuring seasoned ground meat, aromatic veggies, fluffy rice, and a zingy homemade dressing to tie it all together.

🧾 Ingredients (Serves 4)

For the Dirty Rice:

• 1 cup long-grain white rice

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 pound ground chicken or turkey (or beef/pork if preferred)

• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (more to taste)

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped

• ¼ cup green onions, sliced

For the Zesty Dressing:

• ¼ cup olive oil

• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

• Salt and pepper to taste

👩‍🍳 Instructions

✅ Step 1: Cook the Rice

1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain well.

2. In a medium pot, bring 2 cups water and the rice to a boil.

3. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18–20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and water is absorbed.

4. Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.

✅ Step 2: Make the Cajun Mixture

1. In a large skillet, heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil over medium heat.

2. Add onion and bell pepper, and sauté for 5 minutes, until softened.

3. Stir in garlic and cook for another minute.

4. Add ground chicken or turkey to the pan. Cook for 5–7 minutes, breaking it apart until fully browned and cooked through.

5. Season with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.

✅ Step 3: Combine

1. Add the fluffed rice to the skillet and stir to combine with the meat and veggies.

2. Mix in the chopped parsley and green onions.

✅ Step 4: Make the Zesty Dressing

1. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together:

   • ¼ cup olive oil

   • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar

   • 1 tsp Dijon mustard

   • Salt and pepper to taste

2. Drizzle over the rice mixture just before serving, or serve on the side.

⏱️ Time Breakdown

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 30 minutes

• Total Time: 45 minutes

📝 Tips & Variations

• Want more heat? Add red pepper flakes or extra Cajun seasoning.

• Add protein: Stir in chopped cooked sausage, shrimp, or liver for a classic dirty rice twist.

• Low-carb option: Substitute cauliflower rice and reduce cooking time.

• Make ahead: Rice mixture stores well for 3–4 days in the fridge.