15 Delicious Rice and Grain-Based Recipes You’ll Love

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Rice and grains are not just pantry staples; they can be the star of your meals too! This collection features 15 delicious recipes that showcase the versatility of these ingredients, making it easy to whip up something satisfying any day of the week. From hearty mains to fresh salads, there’s a dish for every craving. Let’s get cooking!

1. Jasmine Rice Pilaf with Cilantro and Green Onions

This Jasmine Rice Pilaf is a perfect side dish that brings a light, fragrant touch to any meal. The fluffy rice is enhanced with fresh cilantro and green onions, creating a bright flavor that pairs well with various proteins and vegetables.

Making this dish is simple and quick, making it ideal for busy weeknights or family gatherings. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a delightful dish that will impress your guests and family alike.

Ingredients

• 1 cup jasmine rice
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the rinsed rice and toast it for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently.
3. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
4. Remove the pot from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes with the lid on. Fluff the rice with a fork.
5. Stir in the chopped green onions and cilantro. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.

2. Cilantro Lime Rice

Cilantro lime rice is a bright, zesty side dish that perfectly complements a variety of meals. With its fresh cilantro and tangy lime, this rice is light and refreshing, adding a burst of flavor to any plate. Plus, it’s super easy to make, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

This rice dish is not only delicious but also versatile. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, tacos, or even as a base for a hearty bowl. You can whip it up in just 20 minutes, making it a fantastic option when you need something quick yet tasty.

Ingredients

• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups water
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 1 lime
• Zest of 1 lime
• Optional: diced jalapeño for heat

Instructions

1. Cook the Rice: In a medium saucepan, combine rice, water, olive oil, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until rice is tender and water is absorbed.
2. Fluff and Add Flavor: Remove the saucepan from heat. Let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork.
3. Mix in Cilantro and Lime: Add the chopped cilantro, lime juice, and lime zest to the rice. If you like it spicy, mix in some diced jalapeño. Stir gently to combine.
4. Serve: Enjoy the cilantro lime rice warm as a side dish or as a base for your favorite toppings!

3. Quinoa with Cilantro and Lime

Quinoa with cilantro and lime is a refreshing and vibrant dish that brings a burst of flavor to your table. This recipe is simple to make, making it perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a delightful side dish at gatherings. The tangy lime paired with fresh cilantro creates a zesty, aromatic profile that enhances the nutty taste of quinoa.

This dish is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients. It’s a great source of protein and fiber, making it a healthy choice for anyone looking to add more grains to their diet. Enjoy it warm or chilled as a salad, and feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables for added color and crunch!

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa
• 2 cups vegetable broth or water
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 lime, juiced and zested
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped (optional)

Instructions

1. Rinse the quinoa under cold water to remove any bitterness. In a medium saucepan, combine the quinoa and vegetable broth (or water). Bring to a boil over medium heat.
2. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is fluffy and the liquid is absorbed.
3. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, lime zest, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Combine the fluffed quinoa with the dressing, chopped cilantro, and green onions if using. Mix well and serve warm or chilled.

4. Coconut Cilantro Rice

Coconut cilantro rice is a delightful side dish that combines the creamy richness of coconut milk with the fresh brightness of cilantro. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also brings a tropical flair to your meal. The subtle sweetness of the coconut pairs perfectly with the aromatic herbs, making it a great complement to grilled meats, curries, or even a simple salad.

With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can whip up this flavorful rice in no time. It’s an excellent choice for gatherings or weeknight dinners when you want something a bit special without the fuss. Let’s dive into how to create this delicious dish!

Ingredients

• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 1 cup water
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 1 lime

Instructions

1. Rinse the Rice: Start by rinsing the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and helps keep the rice fluffy.
2. Cook the Rice: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, coconut milk, water, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
3. Simmer: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
4. Fluff and Add Flavor: Remove the pot from the heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes. Then, fluff the rice with a fork and stir in the chopped cilantro and lime juice.
5. Serve: Enjoy this coconut cilantro rice warm as a side dish to your favorite main courses!

5. Garlic Herb Rice

Garlic Herb Rice is a simple yet flavorful side dish that can elevate any meal. With its aromatic garlic and fresh herbs, this rice is not just a filler; it’s a star on its own! The subtle hints of herbs combined with the savory garlic make it a delightful complement to grilled meats, roasted veggies, or even as a base for a grain bowl.

This recipe is easy to prepare and takes only a few ingredients to create a delicious dish that everyone will love. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, Garlic Herb Rice will have your guests asking for seconds!

Ingredients

• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch.
2. In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the rinsed rice to the pan, stirring to coat the rice with the garlic oil. Toast for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Pour in the broth, and add salt and pepper. Bring to a boil.
5. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
6. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork and stir in the chopped parsley and thyme before serving.

6. Lemon Garlic Rice

Lemon Garlic Rice is a delightful and refreshing dish that balances zesty lemon with the aromatic essence of garlic. It’s a simple yet flavorful recipe that can elevate any meal, making it a perfect side for grilled meats or a light vegetarian option. The bright flavors make it appealing, whether you’re cooking for family or guests.

This rice dish is not just easy to prepare, but it also brings a burst of freshness that can brighten up your dining table. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a deliciously fragrant bowl of rice that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 2 cups vegetable broth or water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Rinse the rice under cold water until it runs clear. This helps remove excess starch.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the rinsed rice to the pan and stir for an additional minute to toast it lightly.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth or water, along with the lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
5. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
6. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork and stir in the chopped parsley before serving.

7. Mexican Fiesta Rice

Mexican Fiesta Rice is a vibrant and colorful dish that brings the flavors of Mexico right to your table. With its combination of fluffy rice, black beans, sweet corn, and fresh veggies, this recipe is not only tasty but also simple to prepare. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side for your next fiesta.

This dish is packed with flavor and makes a great base for various toppings like avocado or grilled chicken. You can easily customize it to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Enjoying a bowl of Mexican Fiesta Rice is like having a party in your mouth!

Ingredients

• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 cup chopped green onions
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Juice of 1 lime

Instructions

1. Cook the Rice: In a medium pot, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Add the rice, cover, and reduce the heat to low. Cook for about 15-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and the broth is absorbed.
2. Mix in the Veggies: Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork. Stir in the black beans, corn, diced bell pepper, and green onions.
3. Season: Add the cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Squeeze the lime juice over the mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Garnish and Serve: Top with fresh cilantro before serving. Enjoy warm!

8. Garlic Cilantro Black Beans

Garlic cilantro black beans are a delightful addition to any meal, offering a savory flavor that pairs perfectly with rice or as a taco filling. This dish is not only hearty but also simple to whip up, making it a great choice for busy weeknights or gatherings with friends and family.

The combination of garlic and fresh cilantro elevates the taste, while the black beans provide protein and fiber, making it a nutritious option. Enjoy the vibrant flavors with a squeeze of lemon or lime for an extra zing!

9. Southwest Rice and Beans

Southwest Rice and Beans is a vibrant and hearty dish that packs a punch of flavor. Combining fluffy rice with black beans, sweet corn, and colorful bell peppers, it’s a delightful mix of textures and tastes that bring a taste of the Southwest right to your table. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also a great option for meal prep, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

With its zesty seasoning and fresh ingredients, this dish is both satisfying and nutritious. It’s a one-pot wonder that keeps cleanup simple. Whether enjoyed on its own or as a side, Southwest Rice and Beans will quickly become a favorite!

Ingredients

• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Lime wedges for serving

Instructions

1. In a large skillet or pot, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent.
2. Stir in the rice, chili powder, and cumin, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add the vegetable broth, black beans, corn, and bell peppers. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed the liquid.
4. Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork and season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for a few minutes.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges for an extra zing.

10. Turmeric Lemon Rice

Turmeric lemon rice is a bright and zesty dish that brings a burst of flavor to your table. The combination of turmeric and lemon not only adds a vibrant color but also a refreshing taste that pairs perfectly with a variety of proteins or vegetables. It’s quick and easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

This rice dish is not just simple; it’s also a delightful way to spice up your meals. The earthy tones of turmeric combined with the citrusy zing of lemon create a harmony that elevates plain rice into something special. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal, which means less cleanup!

Ingredients

• 1 cup basmati rice
• 2 cups water or vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the turmeric and salt, stirring for about a minute until fragrant.
3. Add the rinsed rice to the saucepan, stirring to coat the grains with the turmeric mixture.
4. Pour in the water or vegetable broth, and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
5. Remove from heat, fluff with a fork, and stir in the lemon juice and zest. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro before serving.

11. Cilantro Garlic Butter Noodles

Cilantro Garlic Butter Noodles are a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of garlic and butter with the freshness of cilantro. This recipe is simple to make, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a side dish at your next gathering. The noodles are coated in a luscious garlic butter sauce that is both aromatic and satisfying.

The taste is a wonderful balance of savory and fresh, making it a crowd pleaser. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up this dish in no time. Enjoy it on its own or pair it with your favorite protein for a complete meal!

Ingredients

• 8 ounces spaghetti or your favorite noodles
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions

1. Cook the Noodles: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, but not browned.
3. Combine: Add the cooked noodles to the skillet, tossing to coat them in the garlic butter. Stir in the chopped cilantro, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste.
4. Serve: Remove from heat and serve warm, garnished with extra cilantro if desired.

12. Garlic Cilantro Cauliflower Rice

Garlic Cilantro Cauliflower Rice is a delightful twist on traditional rice dishes, offering a fresh and vibrant flavor profile. This recipe combines the earthiness of cauliflower with the aromatic notes of garlic and the bright taste of cilantro, making it a perfect side for any meal. It’s light, low-carb, and super easy to whip up, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

This dish is not only tasty but also versatile. You can serve it alongside grilled chicken, fish, or even as a base for your favorite stir-fry. With just a few ingredients, you can create a dish that is both satisfying and nutritious. Give it a try, and you may find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again.

Ingredients

• 1 head of cauliflower, grated or riced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Juice of 1 lime

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cauliflower: Remove the leaves and core of the cauliflower. Grate or pulse it in a food processor until it resembles rice.
2. Sauté the Garlic: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add Cauliflower: Stir in the riced cauliflower and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender.
4. Mix in Cilantro and Lime: Remove from heat, then stir in the chopped cilantro and lime juice. Adjust seasoning if needed.
5. Serve: Enjoy your garlic cilantro cauliflower rice warm as a side dish or base for your favorite meals.

13. Garlic Cilantro Shrimp

Garlic Cilantro Shrimp is a vibrant and fresh dish that bursts with flavor. The combination of garlic and cilantro creates a fragrant aroma, while the shrimp adds a delightful sweetness. This recipe is not only tasty but also incredibly easy to whip up, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or a special occasion.

The dish pairs beautifully with fluffy rice, allowing the flavors to meld together. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a meal that feels gourmet without the fuss. Enjoy it with a squeeze of lime for that extra zing!

Ingredients

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooked rice, for serving
• Optional: lime wedges and extra cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Marinate the Shrimp: In a bowl, mix the shrimp with minced garlic, olive oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Let it sit for about 15 minutes to soak in the flavors.
2. Cook the Shrimp: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque.
3. Add the Cilantro: Once the shrimp are cooked, stir in the chopped cilantro and cook for an additional minute to heat through.
4. Serve: Serve the garlic cilantro shrimp over a bed of fluffy rice. Garnish with lime wedges and extra cilantro, if desired.

14. Grilled Cilantro Lime Chicken

Grilled Cilantro Lime Chicken is a vibrant and zesty dish that brings a burst of fresh flavors to your table. The combination of cilantro and lime creates a bright marinade that perfectly complements the juicy chicken, making it a hit for summer barbecues or weeknight dinners. It’s simple to prepare and delivers a satisfying meal with minimal effort.

This recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. Serve it with rice, salad, or your favorite grain for a complete meal. The grilling adds a smoky flavor that enhances the dish, making each bite delightful. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, cilantro, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a resealable bag and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more flavor.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the leftover marinade.
4. Grill the Chicken: Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and juices run clear.
5. Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice and serve with lime wedges and additional cilantro, if desired.

15. Garlic Lime Couscous

Garlic Lime Couscous is a vibrant and refreshing dish that brings together the lightness of couscous with zesty lime and aromatic garlic. Perfect as a side or a base for salads, it’s a simple recipe that is packed with flavor and can be whipped up in no time. The tangy lime pairs beautifully with the garlic, creating a taste that is both uplifting and satisfying.

This dish is not only easy to make, but it also allows for personal touches, such as adding your favorite vegetables or herbs. It’s a wonderful option for any meal, whether it’s a casual dinner or a festive gathering.

Ingredients

• 1 cup couscous
• 1 1/4 cups vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Juice and zest of 1 lime
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Broth: In a saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Remove from heat and stir in the couscous, covering it with a lid. Let it sit for about 5 minutes.
2. Cook the Garlic: In a small skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Be careful not to burn it.
3. Combine Ingredients: Fluff the couscous with a fork, and then add the sautéed garlic, lime juice, lime zest, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
4. Garnish and Serve: Transfer the couscous to a serving bowl and garnish with fresh cilantro. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.