Pine Nut and Basil Rice Recipe
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 2
Calories per Serving: 267.2
Description
Elevate your weeknight dinners with this quick and flavorful Pine Nut and Basil Rice recipe from lovewithrecipes.com. This easy dish combines the nutty richness of pine nuts with the fresh, aromatic essence of basil, making it a perfect side or light main course that’s vegan, low in cholesterol, and ideal for summer.
Recipe Category
Category: White Rice
Keywords
- Long Grain Rice
- Rice
- Vegan
- Low Cholesterol
- Summer
- < 60 Mins
- Stove Top
- Easy
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 267.2 kcal
- Fat: 16.3 g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Sodium: 3.8 mg
- Carbohydrates: 27.1 g
- Fiber: 1.2 g
- Sugars: 0.7 g
- Protein: 4.6 g
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup pine nuts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/3 cup long-grain white rice
- 2/3 cup water
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
Instructions
-
Toast the Pine Nuts
In a 1 1/2-quart heavy saucepan, heat the olive oil over moderate heat. Add the pine nuts and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown, about 2 minutes. Be cautious not to burn them. Once toasted, use a slotted spoon to transfer the pine nuts to a bowl and set aside. -
Cook the Rice
In the same pan with the remaining oil, add the long-grain white rice. Cook over moderately low heat, stirring for 1 minute to coat the rice with the oil. This step enhances the rice’s texture and flavor. -
Simmer the Rice
Add the water to the pan with the rice. Increase the heat and bring the water to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to very low, cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender, about 18 minutes. -
Rest the Rice
After the rice has absorbed the water, remove the pan from the heat and let it stand, covered, undisturbed for 5 minutes. This resting period allows the rice to finish cooking and absorb any remaining moisture. -
Prepare the Basil
While the rice is resting, finely chop the fresh basil leaves. -
Combine and Serve
Fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains. Gently stir in the chopped basil and the toasted pine nuts. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips and Variations
- Nut Toasting: Pine nuts can quickly go from toasted to burnt. Stir constantly and remove from heat as soon as they are golden.
- Herbs: While basil adds a fresh flavor, you can substitute with parsley or cilantro for a different twist.
- Rice Options: Long-grain white rice is traditional, but you can experiment with basmati or jasmine rice for a different texture and aroma.
- Additional Ingredients: For extra flavor, add a clove of minced garlic or a teaspoon of lemon zest to the rice as it cooks.
Serving Suggestions
- Main Course: Serve this rice as a light main dish alongside a fresh summer salad or roasted vegetables.
- Side Dish: Pair with grilled chicken, fish, or tofu for a complete meal.
- Garnish: Top with additional fresh basil or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Storage
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of water to restore moisture.
Reviews
Average Rating: 4.0
Review Count: 4
Review Highlights:
- “Simple yet delicious! The pine nuts add a wonderful crunch.”
- “Perfect side for a summer BBQ. The basil really shines in this recipe.”
- “Easy to make and very flavorful. Great for a quick weeknight dinner.”
- “Loved the combination of flavors. Will definitely make this again!”
Recipe Analysis
The Pine Nut and Basil Rice is a well-balanced dish in terms of flavor and nutrition. The olive oil and pine nuts contribute healthy fats, while the rice provides a satisfying base with a moderate amount of carbohydrates. The fresh basil not only adds a burst of flavor but also enhances the nutritional profile with its vitamins and antioxidants. This dish is particularly suitable for those following a vegan or low-cholesterol diet, making it a versatile addition to various meal plans.
The ease of preparation, minimal cooking time, and delightful blend of textures make this recipe an excellent choice for both novice cooks and experienced chefs looking for a quick yet sophisticated dish. Its adaptability allows it to fit seamlessly into diverse culinary traditions, from Mediterranean to modern fusion cuisine.
Conclusion
This Pine Nut and Basil Rice recipe from lovewithrecipes.com embodies simplicity and elegance in a dish. Whether you’re looking for a flavorful side or a light main course, this recipe delivers a harmonious blend of nutty and herbal notes that complement a wide array of dishes. Enjoy the ease of preparation and the delightful taste that makes this rice a go-to for summer meals and beyond.
Happy cooking and bon appétit!
