Holiday Peas And Rice
A comforting holiday side featuring tender rice and peas infused with buttery, savory flavors, perfect for festive gatherings and family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute onion and rice in butter until tender.
- Add garlic powder and chicken broth, then simmer until rice is cooked.
- Stir in English peas before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your Holiday Peas and Rice, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle heat or substituting vegetable broth for a vegetarian option. If you're short on time, you can use pre-cooked rice. For added texture, try incorporating chopped bell peppers or carrots. This dish makes a great side for American recipes like Broiled Chicken or Surprise Chicken.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Holiday Peas and Rice alongside grilled meats or as a base for a hearty stew. It pairs beautifully with Country-Style Chicken Soup or can be enjoyed as a comforting main dish. For a festive touch, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth or water to keep the rice moist, and microwave until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Holiday Peas And Rice contains roughly 1087 calories, with 26g protein, 124g carbohydrates, and 60g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (51% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (48% of the Daily Value), and iron (48% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. It also contributes 14g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it will require a longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust the chicken broth to about 2 3/4 cups and simmer until the brown rice is tender, usually about 40-45 minutes.
What can I substitute for English peas?
If you don't have English peas, frozen peas or even chopped green beans can work well as substitutes. Just make sure to add them towards the end of cooking to retain their color and crunch.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the rice and peas ahead of time and store them separately. Reheat each component before serving. This makes it a convenient option for busy holidays or meal prep.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).