Description
Quick Rice Pilaf Recipe is a simple, fluffy, and flavorful side dish made with long-grain rice, sautéed onion, garlic, butter, and rich broth. This easy stovetop rice pilaf comes together in just 30 minutes and pairs perfectly with chicken, fish, meat, or vegetables. Light, comforting, and aromatic, it’s the perfect everyday Mediterranean-inspired side dish for busy weeknights or family dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (rinsed)
- 2 tablespoons butter (or olive oil)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- Optional: 1/4 cup vermicelli pasta, broken into small pieces
Instructions
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then drain well.
- Heat butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
- If using vermicelli, add it first and toast until golden brown.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft and translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the drained rice and toast gently for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Pour in the chicken broth and season with salt and black pepper.
- Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and cover with a lid.
- Simmer for 15 minutes without lifting the lid.
- Turn off the heat and let the rice rest, covered, for 5–10 minutes.
- Fluff gently with a fork and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
Do not stir the rice while it simmers to keep the grains fluffy. Let the rice rest after cooking for the best texture. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat with a tablespoon of water over low heat. You can add peas, carrots, or toasted almonds for variation.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: B
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 420 mg
- Fat: 6 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 12 mg