Lemon Rice Pilaf
Bright, zesty, and irresistibly aromatic, Lemon Rice Pilaf is the perfect side dish to elevate any meal. Crafted with fluffy basmati rice infused with the tangy freshness of lemon juice and zest, this dish brings a vibrant pop of flavor to your table. Sautéed onions and garlic add a savory depth, while a touch of ground turmeric imparts a beautiful golden hue. Finished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and optional toasted almonds for a delightful crunch, this pilaf pairs seamlessly with roasted chicken, grilled seafood, or vegetarian entrees. Quick to prepare in just 35 minutes, it's a versatile recipe that's as satisfying on its own as it is alongside your favorite main courses. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or meal-prepping for the week, Lemon Rice Pilaf is a must-try for anyone who loves simple yet flavorful dishes. Keywords: lemon rice pilaf, easy rice recipes, tangy pilaf, basmati rice side dish, lemon-flavored rice.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 cup Basmati rice
- 2 cups Water
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Unsalted butter
- 1 small, finely chopped Yellow onion
- 2 minced Garlic cloves
- 1 teaspoon Lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons Fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons, chopped Fresh parsley
- 0.5 teaspoons Ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 0.25 teaspoons Black pepper
- 2 tablespoons, sliced Toasted almonds (optional)
Instructions
Rinse the basmati rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain and set aside.
Heat a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the olive oil and butter, allowing the butter to melt completely.
Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
Add the rinsed basmati rice to the saucepan, stirring well to coat the grains in the oil and butter mixture.
Sprinkle in the ground turmeric and stir again to evenly distribute the color.
Pour in the 2 cups of water, then add the salt and black pepper. Stir to combine.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to the lowest setting. Cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid and let simmer for 15 minutes without lifting the lid.
After 15 minutes, turn off the heat and let the rice sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes.
Remove the lid and fluff the rice gently with a fork. Stir in the lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and chopped parsley.
If desired, sprinkle the dish with toasted sliced almonds for added texture and flavor.
Serve warm as a side dish or enjoy on its own as a light, refreshing meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
190 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 11.6 g | 15% | |
| Saturated Fat | 2.9 g | 14% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 8 mg | 3% | |
| Sodium | 495 mg | 22% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 19.3 g | 7% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.3 g | 5% | |
| Total Sugars | 1.3 g | ||
| Protein | 2.6 g | 5% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 41 mg | 3% | |
| Iron | 1.1 mg | 6% | |
| Potassium | 112 mg | 2% | |
*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.
