While I use this one as a one-pot main dish/meal, it can be used as a nice healthy side dish as well.
1 package yellow rice
1 medium carrot
handful of broccoli florets
2 tbsp olive oil
1 can small peas
Prepare rice following directions on the package. While rice is cooking, sliver the carrot. About 10 minutes before rice is finished, add olive oil, 1/4 cup of water, peas, carrot slivers, and broccoli florets and allow to simmer for the additional 10 minutes.
Carrot and rice will still be a tad crunchy which is what you want. This adds a wonderful texture mix to the rice and peas and provides a healthy and nutritious dish.