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Rice Pilaf Recipe

Rice pilaf is a delightful and adaptable side dish that enhances any meal with its light, fluffy texture and aromatic flavors. This easy rice pilaf recipe blends long-grain white rice with sautéed onions, garlic, and herbs, all simmered in rich chicken or vegetable broth. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this pilaf can be customized with your choice of vegetables or toasted nuts, making it a versatile companion to roasted meats, seafood, or even vegetarian dishes. In just 30 minutes, you can create a stunning side that not only tastes delicious but also elevates the presentation of your dining table.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: Serves approximately four people 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (or olive oil)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice (such as basmati or jasmine), rinsed
  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 bay leaf
  • ¼ cup slivered almonds or pine nuts, toasted (optional)
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Sauté aromatics: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent (3–4 minutes). Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
  2. Toast the rice: Add rinsed rice to the pan. Cook while stirring for about 2–3 minutes until lightly golden.
  3. Simmer: Pour in broth and add seasonings (salt, pepper, thyme, bay leaf). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Simmer for 15–18 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
  4. Rest & fluff: Remove from heat and let sit covered for 5 minutes. Discard bay leaf and fluff rice with a fork.
  5. Serve: Stir in toasted nuts if desired and garnish with fresh parsley before serving warm.
  • Author: Natalia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (185g)
  • Calories: 280
  • Sugar: 0g
  • Sodium: 670mg
  • Fat: 9g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 7g
  • Cholesterol: 10mg

Keywords: Rinse the rice thoroughly to remove starch for fluffier grains. Experiment with adding vegetables like peas or carrots for added nutrition. Use high-quality broth for an enhanced flavor profile.