Elevate your side dish game with this fragrant and nutritious Low Fat Saffron Rice recipe, perfect for complementing any meal while keeping it light and flavorful. Made with aromatic basmati rice, a pinch of luxurious saffron threads, and a hint of turmeric, this vibrant dish boasts a beautiful golden hue and subtle earthy undertones. Sautéed onion and garlic bring savory depth, while low-sodium broth enhances the overall flavor without weighing it down. Quick to prepare, taking just 30 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is an excellent option for busy weeknights or elegant dinner parties. Garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness, it's a wholesome and heartwarming side that's as visually appealing as it is delicious. Perfect for health-conscious cooks searching for low-fat rice recipes, saffron dishes, or easy healthy dinner sides, this versatile dish is sure to delight your taste buds.
Rinse the basmati rice under cold running water until the water runs clear. Drain and set aside.
In a small bowl, soak the saffron threads in 2 tablespoons of warm water for about 10 minutes.
Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Add the minced garlic and turmeric powder. Stir and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the rinsed rice to the saucepan, stirring to coat the rice with the onion and spice mixture.
Pour the saffron water, low-sodium broth, and the remaining water into the pan. Add salt and black pepper.
Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan with a lid, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and all the liquid is absorbed.
Remove the saucepan from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Do not remove the lid during this time.
Fluff the rice with a fork and transfer to a serving dish. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Calories |
438 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 15.6 g | 20% | |
| Saturated Fat | 2.4 g | 12% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 1352 mg | 59% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 63.9 g | 23% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.5 g | 12% | |
| Total Sugars | 4.7 g | ||
| Protein | 10.1 g | 20% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 134 mg | 10% | |
| Iron | 5.1 mg | 28% | |
| Potassium | 479 mg | 10% | |
*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.