Description
Rice is a staple in many cuisines, but these simple rice meals with a twist bring new flavors and exciting combinations to your dinner table. Whether you’re looking for a savory stir-fry or a refreshing rice salad, these recipes will inspire you to elevate your rice dishes. Quick, easy, and packed with flavor, these rice meals are perfect for busy nights or when you want to impress your guests.
Ingredients
Scale
Coconut Rice with Mango and Cilantro:
- 1 cup basmati rice
- 1 can coconut milk
- 1 cup water
- 1 mango, peeled and diced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tsp lime juice
- 1/2 tsp salt
Lemon Garlic Rice with Spinach and Pine Nuts:
- 1 cup jasmine rice
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- Salt and pepper to taste
Saffron Rice with Roasted Vegetables:
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 1/2 tsp saffron threads
- 2 cups water
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup peas
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
Coconut Rice with Mango and Cilantro:
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- In a pot, combine coconut milk, water, and salt. Bring to a boil.
- Add the rice, reduce heat, and simmer covered for 15-18 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Remove from heat and fluff with a fork. Stir in mango, cilantro, and lime juice. Serve warm.
Lemon Garlic Rice with Spinach and Pine Nuts:
- Cook jasmine rice according to package instructions using vegetable broth instead of water.
- While rice cooks, heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat and sauté garlic until fragrant.
- Add spinach and cook until wilted. Stir in cooked rice, pine nuts, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Serve immediately.
Saffron Rice with Roasted Vegetables:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss zucchini, bell pepper, and peas with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 20-25 minutes.
- In a separate pot, cook rice with saffron threads and water, bringing it to a boil and then simmering until the rice is tender.
- Once the rice and vegetables are cooked, combine them in a bowl and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve warm.
Notes
- Adjust the seasonings to suit your taste; add more herbs or spices for extra flavor.
- These rice dishes can be served as a side or as a main course when paired with protein like chicken, fish, or tofu
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Main Course