If you want a side that can complement a wide range of main courses, try Herbed Rice Pilaf. This dish requires only a handful of ingredients and is easy to make. I highly recommend it for busy weeknights or festive gatherings.
Contents
Herbed Rice Pilaf Recipe
Herbed Rice Pilaf is a classic side dish from Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines. It’s known for its light, fluffy texture and aromatic herb flavors.
The dish is often made with long-grain rice, sautéed onions, and a blend of fresh or dried herbs like parsley, dill, and thyme. It pairs perfectly with grilled meats or roasted vegetables. You can also serve it as a standalone dish.
Here’s how to make the Herbed Rice Pilaf:
Herbed Rice Pilaf
Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain rice basmati or jasmine
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter or olive oil
- ½ small onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- ½ tsp salt adjust to taste
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp dried parsley or 1 tbsp fresh
- ½ tsp dried dill optional
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice optional, for brightness
Instructions
- In a medium pot, melt the butter (or heat the olive oil) over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and cook for 2 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
- Add the uncooked rice to the pot and stir for 1-2 minutes until lightly toasted and fragrant.
- Pour in the broth, add salt, black pepper, and dried herbs. Stir well, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 15-18 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Remove from heat, let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork, stir in fresh lemon juice (if using), and garnish with extra parsley. Serve warm!
Notes
- Use vegetable broth and olive oil instead of butter.
- Goes great with grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or a creamy yogurt sauce.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of water to keep it moist.
Nutrition
SIMILAR RECIPES
Pairing suggestions
Herbed Rice Pilaf goes well with a variety of proteins, vegetables, and beverages. Here are some excellent options for serving Herbed Rice Pilaf:
- Food Pairings
- Grilled chicken complements the pilaf’s flavors.
- Shrimp and salmon pair well with herbed rice.
- Skirt steak and beef tenderloin are great with pilaf.
- Pork chops and honey-mustard chicken pair well with pilaf.
- Roasted vegetables enhance the pilaf’s freshness.
- A green salad adds a refreshing contrast.
- Grilled zucchini and bell peppers complement the pilaf.
- Beverage Options
- Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements pilaf.
- Apple juice adds subtle sweetness to the pilaf.
- Sparkling water cleanses the palate and refreshes it.
- Light ales and pilsners offer a refreshing contrast.
- Chamomile or mint tea offers a soothing complement.
Variations
Herbed rice pilaf can be adapted with various ingredients and flavor profiles. Here are some popular variations:
- Flavor Variations
- Lemon Herb Rice incorporates the zest and juice of one lemon. It adds fresh dill and parsley for a refreshing taste.
- Garlic Herb Rice increases garlic content by adding 2-3 more cloves. It mixes in fresh basil, parsley, and oregano to enhance the flavor.
- Cilantro Lime Rice replaces parsley with lime juice and fresh cilantro. It makes an ideal side for Mexican dishes.
- Rosemary and Thyme Rice adds fresh rosemary and thyme after cooking. It includes a pinch of black pepper for extra flavor.
- Parmesan Herb Rice stirs in grated Parmesan cheese after cooking. It swaps out parsley for fresh basil to create a rich, cheesy taste.
- Ingredient Substitutions
- Basmati rice can be substituted with long grain or wild rice.
- Chicken broth can be substituted with vegetable broth.
- Toasted nuts (pecans, almonds, or pine nuts) add texture and flavor to the rice.