Peas And Rice Casserole
A comforting and flavorful casserole featuring tender peas and aromatic rice, enriched with Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs. Perfect as a side dish or light main, it appeals to those seeking a simple, savory, and satisfying vegetarian option that pairs well with a variety of meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute onion and parsley in melted butter in a large skillet until tender.
- Add rice and saute for 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Add water, bring to a boil.
- Cover, reduce heat, and simmer for 15 minutes or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Stir in frozen peas and cook until heated through.
- Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using vegetable broth instead of water. If you don't have long-grain rice, jasmine or basmati can work as substitutes. Fresh peas can be used instead of frozen if they are in season. Experiment with different herbs, such as thyme or dill, to elevate the dish. This casserole is also great for meal prep, as it holds up well in the fridge.
Serving Suggestions
This Peas and Rice Casserole pairs beautifully with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. It can also serve as a hearty side dish for grilled meats or fish. For a vegetarian option, serve it alongside a fresh tomato salad. Consider trying it with Egg And Cheese Strata for a fulfilling brunch.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the microwave or oven until warmed through. Adding a splash of water can help maintain moisture when reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Peas And Rice Casserole contains roughly 358 calories, with 30g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (219% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (118% of the Daily Value), and potassium (98% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2253mg per serving (98% 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 white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and increase the water amount. Brown rice typically takes longer to cook, so plan for about 40-45 minutes to ensure it's tender and fully cooked.
Is this casserole suitable for freezing?
Yes, this casserole can be frozen. Once cooled, transfer it to a freezer-safe container, and it can last for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake in the oven until heated through.
What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?
If you don't have Parmesan cheese, alternatives such as Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast can provide a similar flavor. For a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast is a great seasoning that adds a cheesy taste without dairy.
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).