Citrus Rice Pilaf
Brighten up your meal with this vibrant and aromatic Citrus Rice Pilaf! This recipe combines fluffy long-grain white rice with the zesty flavors of orange and lemon, creating a refreshing side dish that's perfect for any occasion. Toasted rice infused with fragrant garlic, finely chopped onion, and a splash of citrus juices is simmered with chicken or vegetable broth for layers of depth and flavor. A sprinkle of fresh parsley and optional sliced almonds adds a touch of freshness and crunch, making this dish not only delicious but visually stunning. Ready in just 35 minutes, this easy citrus pilaf is a versatile companion to roasted chicken, grilled seafood, or even a light vegetable medley. Add this crowd-pleaser to your recipe rotation for a tangy twist on classic rice pilaf!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 unit small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons orange juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 0.5 teaspoons salt
- 0.25 teaspoons black pepper
- 2 tablespoons sliced almonds (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Rinse the rice in cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch, then drain well.
In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Add the finely chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
Add the rinsed and drained rice to the saucepan, stirring to coat the grains with the oil. Toast the rice for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, orange zest, lemon zest, orange juice, and lemon juice.
Add salt and black pepper, and stir to combine.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let the rice simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
Once the rice is cooked, remove it from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
Fluff the rice gently with a fork and stir in the fresh parsley.
If desired, sprinkle sliced almonds on top for garnish before serving.
Serve warm and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
168 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 9.0 g | 12% | |
| Saturated Fat | 1.3 g | 6% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 3 mg | 1% | |
| Sodium | 675 mg | 29% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 18.8 g | 7% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.3 g | 5% | |
| Total Sugars | 2.4 g | ||
| Protein | 3.6 g | 7% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 33 mg | 3% | |
| Iron | 0.6 mg | 4% | |
| Potassium | 141 mg | 3% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
