Rice Cheddar
Creamy rice dish infused with cheddar and savory pimentos, topped with tender green onions. Perfect for a quick side or comforting main for cheese lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute sliced green onions in butter until soft.
- Add cooked rice and diced pimentos; cook over low heat until thoroughly heated.
- Stir in diced Cheddar cheese, then season with salt and pepper.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or cream when stirring in the Cheddar cheese. If you don't have pimentos, roasted red peppers or even finely chopped bell peppers can work as substitutes. Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can add a nice touch. This dish is also excellent for using leftover rice, making it a great option in line with many American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Rice Cheddar as a comforting main dish or as a hearty side alongside grilled meats or a fresh salad. It pairs beautifully with Alabama Cornish Hens for a delightful meal. For a vegetarian option, consider adding steamed vegetables like broccoli or peas to enhance the nutrition and color.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You can also microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between, to ensure even heating without drying it out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rice Cheddar contains roughly 679 calories, with 6g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 63g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (179% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (32% of the Daily Value), and iron (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. It also contributes 5g 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 make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. Simply follow the recipe up to the point of adding the cheese, then refrigerate it. When ready to serve, reheat in a skillet and stir in the cheese just before serving for the best texture.
What type of rice works best for this recipe?
Long-grain rice, such as basmati or jasmine, works well for this dish because it remains fluffy and separate. However, you can use any cooked rice you have on hand, including brown rice, which will add a slightly nuttier flavor and more fiber.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Absolutely! You can mix in cooked chicken, sausage, or shrimp to make it a complete meal. For a vegetarian protein boost, consider adding black beans or chickpeas, which will complement the flavors and provide extra nutrition.
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).