Parsleyed Rice
A vibrant, herbaceous rice dish featuring fresh parsley, perfect as a side for Mediterranean meals or as a light, flavorful accompaniment for gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring 5 quarts of water to a boil with 1 tablespoon of salt.
- Add 2 cups of unconverted long grain rice; stir until water returns to a boil.
- Boil the rice for 10 minutes.
- Drain the rice and rinse in a colander.
- Set the colander of rice over boiling water.
- Cover the rice with a lid and steam for 15 minutes or until fluffy and dry.
- In a large bowl, toss the minced parsley with the steamed rice and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider toasting the rice in a bit of olive oil before boiling it. You can also substitute the parsley with fresh cilantro or basil for a different taste profile. If you're short on time, using pre-cooked rice can speed up the process, but adjust the steaming time accordingly. This dish can serve as a versatile base for various Mediterranean recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Parsleyed rice makes a delightful side dish, pairing beautifully with grilled meats or fish. Consider serving it alongside Sliced Tomatoes And Cucumbers or White Bean And Tomato Salad for a refreshing meal. It can also be used as a base for a grain bowl topped with roasted vegetables or chickpeas for a hearty vegan option.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover parsleyed rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water and microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in a skillet over medium heat, stirring to prevent sticking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Parsleyed Rice contains roughly 545 calories, with 42g protein, 97g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (199% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (148% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2216mg per serving (96% 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 brown rice instead of long grain rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it requires a longer cooking time. Adjust the boiling time to around 30-40 minutes, and follow the same steaming process to ensure the rice is fluffy.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the rice a day in advance. After cooking and cooling, store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat and toss with parsley before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Can I add other vegetables to the rice?
Certainly! Feel free to mix in steamed vegetables like peas, carrots, or bell peppers for added nutrition and color. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time for any additional ingredients to ensure everything is cooked perfectly.
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).