Side Dishes > Rice Dishes (Side) > Rice Pilaf > Vegetable Rice Pilaf Recipe

Flavorful Vegetable Rice Pilaf

Elevate your side dish game with this vibrant and flavorful Vegetable Rice Pilaf. This recipe combines fluffy rice with a medley of colorful vegetables and aromatic spices for a delicious and satisfying accompaniment to any meal.

Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
30 minutes
Servings
4-6
Ingredients
  • 1 cup Long-grain rice
  • 2 cups Vegetable broth
  • 2 tablespoons Olive oil
  • 1/2 medium, diced Onion
  • 1/2 medium, diced Carrot
  • 1/2 stalk, diced Celery
  • 2 cloves, minced Garlic
  • 1/2 cup Frozen peas
  • 1/2 cup Corn
  • 1/2 teaspoon Dried thyme
  • 1/4 teaspoon Dried rosemary
  • 1/2 teaspoon, or to taste Salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon, or to taste Black pepper

Sauté the Aromatics

In a medium saucepan or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Toast the Rice

Add the long-grain rice to the saucepan and stir constantly for 2-3 minutes, allowing the rice to toast slightly. This step enhances the nutty flavor of the rice.

Add Broth and Spices

Pour in the vegetable broth, add the dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.

Simmer and Cook

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan tightly, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the liquid is absorbed. Do not lift the lid during this time.

Add Frozen Vegetables

Remove the saucepan from the heat and gently stir in the frozen peas and corn. Cover again and let it sit for 5 minutes to allow the vegetables to heat through.

Fluff and Serve

Fluff the rice with a fork and serve hot. Garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, if desired.

Nutrition Facts Estimated per 100g of product

Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 2g
Fiber: 2g

Other Considerations for Nutrition

This recipe can be easily adapted to be gluten-free by ensuring the vegetable broth used is gluten-free. The nutritional content will vary based on specific ingredients used.

← Classic Rice Pilaf Fragrant Almond Rice Pilaf →

FAQ

  • Can I use brown rice instead of long-grain rice?

    Yes, you can use brown rice, but the cooking time will need to be adjusted. Brown rice typically requires more liquid and a longer cooking time. Add about 1/2 cup more broth and cook for about 45-50 minutes, or until the rice is tender.
  • Can I add other vegetables to this pilaf?

    Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, or green beans. Adjust the cooking time as needed depending on the vegetables you use.
  • Can I make this recipe in a rice cooker?

    Yes, you can. Sauté the aromatics in a pan and then transfer them to the rice cooker along with the rice, broth, and spices. Follow the rice cooker's instructions for cooking rice.