I could tell this recipe needed some creativity. I used TBS. Olive oil while browning meat. Then, I added a handful fresh chopped parsley, green bell pepper, salt, pepper, 1/2 TSP. minced garlic, and TSP. celery salt. I used green onions(Green part & all, instead of onion.) I also used 1 1/2 cans of tomatoes, and 2 cups hot water(for the rice.) Because of this, the meal came out fabulous! It had tons of flavor, and I served it with Krafts Italian pasta salad, and the Parmesan Breadsticks. DELISH! :)