Get ready to elevate your mealtime game with 20 flavorful rice pilaf recipes that will impress anyone! Whether you’re looking for a comforting side dish, a quick weeknight dinner, or a show-stopping centerpiece for your next gathering, we’ve got you covered. From classic butter and herb combinations to bold Middle Eastern flavors and sweet and savory twists, our collection of rice pilaf recipes has something for every taste and occasion.
Classic Butter and Herb Rice Pilaf
Classic Butter and Herb Rice Pilaf Recipe
This comforting side dish combines fluffy rice with the rich flavors of butter, herbs, and spices, perfect for accompanying your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the rice and stir to coat with the butter mixture. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Add 2 cups of water, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Lemon Garlic Rice Pilaf with Fresh Parsley
This vibrant pilaf combines fluffy rice with the brightness of lemon and garlic, finished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for added freshness. Perfect as a side dish or light lunch, this recipe is easy to prepare and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine mesh strainer until the water runs clear.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Add the rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until lightly toasted.
5. Add the lemon juice and water to the saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
6. Fluff the pilaf with a fork and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Middle Eastern Spiced Rice Pilaf with Almonds
A fragrant and flavorful pilaf that combines the warmth of Middle Eastern spices with the crunch of toasted almonds.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 2 cups water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup toasted almonds, chopped
- Parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the garlic, cumin, and smoked paprika (if using). Cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
- Add the rice to the saucepan and stir to coat with the spice mixture. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Add the water to the saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
- Fork in the chopped almonds and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vegetable Medley Rice Pilaf with Peas and Carrots
This colorful pilaf recipe combines fluffy rice with a medley of sautéed vegetables, peas, and carrots for a nutritious and flavorful side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms)
– 1/2 cup frozen peas
– 1/2 cup diced carrots
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the mixed vegetables, peas, carrots, rice, and water or broth to the saucepan.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Greek-Inspired Rice Pilaf with Feta and Olives
A flavorful and aromatic rice pilaf infused with the rich flavors of Greece, featuring crumbly feta cheese and briny olives.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water or chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the rice and stir to coat with the oil and mix with the onion mixture.
5. Add the water or broth and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
7. Stir in the sliced olives and crumbled feta cheese.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Persian Saffron Rice Pilaf with Barberries
This fragrant rice pilaf is a staple of Persian cuisine, infused with the subtle flavor of saffron and the tartness of barberries. A flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with grilled meats or as a base for other Persian dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup long-grain white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup barberries, rinsed and drained
– Salt to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse rice in a fine-mesh sieve until the water runs clear.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat oil over medium-high. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add soaked saffron and garlic; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add rice to the saucepan and stir to coat with oil mixture. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Add water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
6. Stir in barberries; season with salt to taste.
7. Garnish with parsley or dill, if desired. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Coconut Milk Rice Pilaf with Toasted Cashews
Elevate your rice game with this creamy and nutty pilaf, perfect as a side dish or main course. This recipe combines the comfort of coconut milk with the crunch of toasted cashews.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
– 1/2 cup toasted cashews
Instructions:
1. Rinse rice and combine with water in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together coconut milk, melted butter, saffron mixture, salt, and pepper.
3. Once rice is cooked, fluff with a fork and stir in the coconut milk mixture.
4. Top with toasted cashews and cilantro (if using). Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Wild Mushroom and Thyme Rice Pilaf
Experience the earthy flavors of wild mushrooms and the warmth of thyme in this aromatic rice pilaf.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 2 cups mixed wild mushrooms (such as chanterelle, cremini, and shiitake), cleaned and sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the garlic and thyme; cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the Arborio rice and stir to combine with the mushroom mixture.
6. Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the rice is lightly toasted.
7. Add the warmed broth, 1 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
8. Once all the broth has been absorbed, fluff the pilaf with a fork and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spicy Tomato Rice Pilaf with Cumin and Coriander
This flavorful pilaf combines the warmth of cumin and coriander with the sweetness of tomatoes, all wrapped up in a spicy package. Perfect as a side dish or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1-2 teaspoons hot sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, 3-4 minutes.
3. Add cumin, coriander, and rice; cook, stirring constantly, 1 minute.
4. Add water, diced tomatoes, and hot sauce (if using); bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
6. Fluff with a fork; season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Indian Basmati Rice Pilaf with Cardamom and Cloves
Aromatic and flavorful, this Indian-inspired pilaf combines the nutty goodness of Basmati rice with the warmth of cardamom and cloves. Perfect as a side dish or base for your favorite curries.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup Basmati rice
• 2 cups water
• 1 whole cardamom pod, crushed
• 2-3 whole cloves
• 1 tablespoon ghee (clarified butter) or vegetable oil
• Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the Basmati rice and soak it in water for at least 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat the ghee or oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
3. Add the crushed cardamom pod, cloves, and salt. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
4. Add the soaked Basmati rice to the saucepan and stir to coat with the spice mixture.
5. Add the water to the saucepan and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
7. Fluff the pilaf with a fork and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken and Rice Pilaf with Golden Raisins
This aromatic pilaf combines the comforting flavors of chicken, rice, and golden raisins for a satisfying side dish or main course. The sweet and savory combination is sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup golden raisins
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from pan.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in the cooked rice, golden raisins, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to combine.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 10-12 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turmeric and Ginger Rice Pilaf with Chickpeas
This flavorful pilaf combines the warm, aromatic spices of turmeric and ginger with nutty brown rice and protein-rich chickpeas, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 can chickpeas (15 ounces), drained and rinsed
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic, turmeric, and ginger; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add rice and stir to coat with the spice mixture. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Add water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
6. Fluff pilaf with a fork and stir in chickpeas. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pineapple Fried Rice Pilaf with Bell Peppers
Elevate your rice game with this sweet and savory dish, featuring the tropical flavors of pineapple, bell peppers, and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 2 cups mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add sliced bell peppers and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in cooked rice, pineapple chunks, soy sauce, cumin, salt, and pepper.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the rice is heated through and starting to brown.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Smoky Bacon and Onion Rice Pilaf
Elevate your meal with this savory rice pilaf recipe, packed with smoky bacon and caramelized onions. This comforting side dish is perfect for accompanying your favorite main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 6 slices of smoky bacon, diced
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced bacon and cook until crispy, about 5 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium and add the sliced onion. Cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally, about 20-25 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper to the saucepan. Stir for 1 minute.
5. Add the cooked rice to the saucepan and stir to combine with the onion mixture.
6. Gradually add the chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a simmer.
7. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Mediterranean Rice Pilaf with Artichokes and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
This hearty pilaf combines the flavors of the Mediterranean with the sweetness of artichokes and sun-dried tomatoes, making it a perfect side dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add rice and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add water, artichoke hearts, sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover.
6. Simmer for 18-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
7. Fluff with a fork and garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Jamaican Jerk Rice Pilaf with Black Beans
Elevate your rice game with the bold flavors of Jamaica! This pilaf combines aromatic spices, tender black beans, and fluffy rice for a mouthwatering one-pot dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon Jamaican jerk seasoning (available at most grocery stores)
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the Jamaican jerk seasoning and stir to combine.
5. Add the uncooked rice and water, stirring to coat the rice evenly.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
7. Stir in the cooked black beans and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Butter Shrimp Rice Pilaf
This flavorful pilaf combines succulent shrimp with garlic butter, sautéed vegetables, and fluffy rice for a satisfying one-pot meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons butter, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Stir in the softened butter until melted.
6. Add the rice to the pan, stirring to combine with the vegetable mixture.
7. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until the rice is lightly toasted.
8. Add the water and bring to a boil.
9. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid has been absorbed and the rice is cooked.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet and Savory Cranberry Rice Pilaf
This flavorful pilaf combines the warmth of sautéed onions and garlic with the sweetness of cranberries and the savory aroma of chicken broth. A perfect side dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water or chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the uncooked rice and stir to coat with oil and mix with onion mixture.
5. Add the water or chicken broth, cranberries, thyme, salt, and pepper.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spinach and Parmesan Rice Pilaf
Elevate your rice game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the earthy taste of spinach with the richness of Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the rice and stir to coat with the oil and mix with the onion and garlic.
5. Add the water and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed.
7. Stir in the chopped spinach and grated Parmesan cheese.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mexican-Style Rice Pilaf with Corn and Cilantro
Elevate your rice game with this flavorful Mexican-inspired pilaf, bursting with sweet corn and fresh cilantro. Perfect as a side dish or base for various meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the rice and stir to coat with oil and mix with onion. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
4. Add the water, corn, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
6. Fluff with a fork and garnish with cilantro.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Summary
Discover 20 mouthwatering rice pilaf recipes to elevate your meals. From classic butter and herb to international flavors like Middle Eastern spiced, Greek-inspired, and Indian basmati, there’s something for every taste and occasion. Enjoy vegetable medley pilafs with peas and carrots or try bold options like spicy tomato with cumin and coriander. Savor global inspirations like Turkish saffron, Jamaican jerk, or Mexican-style corn and cilantro. Whether you’re looking for comfort food or a flavor boost, these recipes will satisfy your cravings. Get ready to spice up your mealtime with these flavorful rice pilaf creations!
