Save This vibrant rice pilaf features sautéed yellow onion and diced red and green bell peppers, blended with long-grain rice and seasoned with garlic, thyme, and bay leaf. The dish is cooked gently in vegetable broth until tender and fluffy, then garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges for a bright finish. Simple preparation steps bring out a fragrant, flavorful blend ideal as a savory side or satisfying light main course.
Last summer, my neighbor brought over a bowl of this rice after I mentioned running out of dinner ideas. The way the peppers and onions had sweetened into the rice made me realize how something so simple could taste so put-together. Now it is my go-to when I want people to think I tried harder than I actually did.
I made this for a dinner party when I was too tired to attempt anything complicated. Everyone kept asking what I put in it to make it taste so good. Sometimes the most straightforward dishes are the ones that impress people the most.
Ingredients
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped: This melts down into sweetness and forms the flavor base
- 1 red bell pepper and 1 green bell pepper, diced: The duo adds color and a gentle sweetness that balances the savory rice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Add this right before the rice so it does not burn
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed: Basmati or jasmine work best here, and rinsing removes excess starch
- 2 cups vegetable broth: Use a good quality broth since it provides most of the seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Helps toast the rice grains and keeps everything from sticking
- 1 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper: Adjust to your taste, but the rice needs proper seasoning
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme and 1 bay leaf: Gentle herbs that add depth without overpowering the vegetables
- Fresh parsley and lemon wedges: Bright finishes that make the dish feel complete
Instructions
- Start the vegetables:
- Warm the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat and add the chopped onion. Let it soften for about 3 minutes until it turns translucent.
- Add the peppers:
- Stir in the diced peppers and cook for another 4 minutes until they are tender and starting to smell sweet.
- Add the garlic:
- Toss in the minced garlic and stir for just 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant.
- Toast the rice:
- Add the rinsed rice and stir it around for about 1 minute until the grains look slightly opaque and coated in oil.
- Add the liquid and seasonings:
- Pour in the vegetable broth and add the salt, pepper, thyme, and bay leaf. Stir everything together.
- Simmer:
- Bring it to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it cook for 15 to 18 minutes until the rice is tender.
- Rest the rice:
- Remove from heat and leave it covered for 5 minutes. This step lets the rice finish cooking evenly.
- Finish and serve:
- Fluff the rice with a fork, discard the bay leaf, and scatter fresh parsley on top. Offer lemon wedges at the table.
Save This recipe has become the side dish I bring to potlucks because it travels well and appeals to almost everyone. Something about the combination of tender peppers and fragrant rice makes people feel cared for.
Make It Your Own
I have swapped in diced carrots or frozen peas when the fridge was running low on fresh peppers. The method stays the same, and it still turns out delicious.
Serving Suggestions
This rice pairs beautifully with simple grilled chicken or baked fish. It also works as a light main dish alongside a green salad and some crusty bread.
Storage and Reheating
The rice keeps well in the refrigerator for up to four days and freezes beautifully for up to three months. Reheat it gently with a splash of water or broth to bring back its moisture.
- Store in an airtight container to prevent the rice from drying out
- Add a pat of butter when reheating for extra richness
- Consider making a double batch because it disappears quickly
Save Simple dishes like this remind me that good cooking does not have to be complicated. Hope this becomes a reliable favorite in your kitchen too.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of rice works best for this pilaf?
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Long-grain varieties like basmati or jasmine provide a fluffy texture and fragrant aroma perfect for this pilaf.
- → Can I substitute the bell peppers?
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Yes, colorful vegetables such as carrots or peas can be swapped in to vary flavor and texture.
- → How do I enhance the flavor of the rice pilaf?
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Toasting the rice lightly in olive oil before adding broth intensifies the nuttiness and overall flavor.
- → Is it suitable for gluten-free diets?
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Yes, using gluten-free vegetable broth ensures this dish remains gluten-free and safe for sensitive diets.
- → What garnishes complement this dish?
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Fresh chopped parsley and lemon wedges add a bright, fresh finish that enhances the pilaf’s flavors.
