Rice Almondine
Rice Almondine is a flavorful and wholesome side dish featuring tender brown rice, green beans, toasted almonds, and fresh dill. The lemon and garlic accents add brightness, making it perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests who appreciate a nutritious, tasty accompaniment.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion; cook and stir until tender.
- Add chicken broth, lemon juice, and garlic powder; bring to a boil.
- Stir in instant brown rice.
- Return to a boil; reduce heat to low.
- Cover and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in thawed green beans, toasted sliced almonds, and chopped dill.
- Cover and let stand for 5 minutes.
- Fluff with a fork before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing some minced garlic along with the onion. You can substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version. If you don’t have dill, fresh parsley or thyme can also work well. For a nut-free option, simply omit the toasted almonds or replace them with sunflower seeds.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Rice Almondine alongside grilled chicken or fish for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Chicken And Vegetables In One Pan, making for a delightful dinner spread. For a complete meal, consider adding a side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out, and microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. This dish can also be enjoyed cold as a salad base.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rice Almondine contains roughly 429 calories, with 15g protein, 78g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (58% of the Daily Value), iron (43% of the Daily Value), and protein (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. It also contributes 8g 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 regular brown rice instead of instant?
Yes, you can use regular brown rice, but you will need to adjust the cooking time. Regular brown rice typically takes about 40-45 minutes to cook, so be sure to check the package instructions and adjust the liquid accordingly.
Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
Yes, you can easily make this recipe gluten-free by ensuring your chicken broth is labeled gluten-free. Additionally, check that the instant brown rice is also gluten-free, which most brands are. This way, you can enjoy a delicious gluten-free meal without compromising on flavor.
What can I add to make this dish more filling?
To make Rice Almondine more filling, consider adding cooked proteins like diced chicken or shrimp. You might also try incorporating chickpeas or lentils for a hearty vegetarian option. Both additions will enhance the dish's nutrition and flavor.
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).