Holiday Rice
Festive and flavorful rice ring filled with sautéed vegetables and herbs, perfect for holiday gatherings and served with hearty entrees for a colorful, savory centerpiece.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook onion, celery, and bell pepper in butter in a heavy skillet until tender.
- Add cooked rice, salt, chopped broccoli, and chopped parsley; stir well.
- Pour the mixture into a warm buttered ring mold and shape as desired.
- Turn out onto a tray or serve directly from the mold.
- Garnish with slivered almonds and additional parsley.
- Serve with beef curry, shrimp creole, or your favorite entree in the center of the ring.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, use butter instead of margarine. You can substitute the broccoli with frozen mixed vegetables if fresh isn’t available. Adding a pinch of garlic powder or using cooked chicken can enhance the dish even further. If you prefer a plant-based option, try using olive oil and replacing the butter with a vegan alternative. This dish is versatile, allowing you to mix in other veggies like peas or corn.
Serving Suggestions
This festive rice dish pairs wonderfully with beef curry or shrimp creole, making it a perfect centerpiece. You can also serve it alongside a fresh salad or the St. Joseph'S Chicken Dinner Cole Slaw for a complete meal. Consider garnishing with additional parsley or using a side of berry lemonade to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave on medium power until heated through, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming. Alternatively, you can reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Holiday Rice contains roughly 209 calories, with 4g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (53% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 507mg per serving (22% of the Daily Value).
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 uncooked rice instead of cooked rice?
No, this recipe specifically requires cooked rice to achieve the right texture and flavor. If you only have uncooked rice, you can cook it according to package instructions before adding it to the vegetable mixture.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the rice and sauté the vegetables a day in advance. Combine them and store in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, just mold and heat it up, which saves time when hosting during the holidays.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! All the ingredients are naturally gluten-free except for some processed items. Ensure your margarine and any additional ingredients are certified gluten-free. This makes the dish suitable for gluten-sensitive guests.
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).