Are you searching for a dish that combines simple preparation with delightful flavors? Look no further than Tomato Basil Rice. This recipe is the perfect amalgamation of ripe tomatoes’ sweetness with the aromatic punch of fresh basil. Not only is the dish a feast for the senses, but it’s also wonderfully easy to prepare. Even if you’re pressed for time during a busy weeknight or planning a special family dinner, this recipe is sure to become one of your staples.
With a base of fluffy, seasoned rice, this recipe picks up an exquisite depth of flavor from its key ingredients — tomatoes and basil. The tomatoes add a touch of juiciness while the basil brings a fresh herbal note that makes every bite sing. What sets Tomato Basil Rice apart is its ability to pair harmoniously with a variety of dishes. Try it with grilled chicken, roasted veggies, or make it the star of a vegetarian feast.
The simplicity of Tomato Basil Rice doesn’t compromise its versatility. Imagine the fragrance sweeping through your home as the onions and garlic sizzle in olive oil, releasing their sweet aroma. This dish is both satisfying and adaptable, perfect for any season and ideal for cooks of any skill level. So why not give this recipe a try? Your taste buds will thank you!
Why You’ll Love This Tomato Basil Rice
If you’re still on the fence, here are more reasons this recipe deserves a spot on your menu:
- Quick and Easy: Prepped and cooked in under 30 minutes.
- Flavorful: A perfect balance of savory and herby notes.
- Versatile: Pairs beautifully with a variety of main dishes.
- Family-Friendly: Appeals to both kids and adults alike.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into the wonderful world of Tomato Basil Rice, ensure your kitchen is well organized for a smooth cooking experience. Start by gathering all necessary utensils and ingredients. Have a medium saucepan for cooking the rice mixture and a sharp knife for chopping the onion, garlic, and basil. Opting for a sturdy chef’s knife will streamline your prep work.
It’s helpful to have a garlic press or a microplane grater on hand if you prefer a quicker way to mince garlic. A wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula will assist in stirring the ingredients together while ensuring the rice doesn’t stick to the pan. Consider using a rice cooker for evenly cooked, fluffy rice if you have one available. Lastly, provide yourself with a fine-mesh sieve to drain the diced tomatoes efficiently.
Ingredients
- 1 cup long grain rice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
Begin by heating olive oil in a medium saucepan over a medium setting. Add the finely chopped onion, allowing it to sauté for around 3-4 minutes until it turns translucent and soft.
Step 2: Infuse with Garlic and Tomatoes
Introduce the minced garlic to the sautéed onions, stirring for 1-2 minutes until the garlic releases its fragrant aroma. Follow up with the diced tomatoes, cooking for an additional 5 minutes to meld the ingredients thoroughly.
Step 3: Cook the Rice
Add the long-grain rice along with the broth, seasoning lightly with salt and pepper. Stir all components together to ensure the rice is fully immersed in the liquid. Bring the mixture to a boil before reducing the heat to low. Cover the saucepan and let it simmer for 18-20 minutes, permitting the rice to absorb the liquid and cook to perfection.
Step 4: Final Touches
Once the rice is cooked and the liquid absorbed, remove the saucepan from heat. Fluff the rice gently with a fork to separate the grains. Stir in freshly chopped basil, adjusting the seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary. Serve warm, savoring as a delicious side dish or a satisfying main.
Variations
- Protein: Enhance with grilled chicken, sausage, or shrimp for a hearty twist.
- Vegetables: Add bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini for more color and nutrients.
- Spices: Elevate flavors with additions like cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, or Italian seasoning.
Cooking Notes
- Use fresh, ripe tomatoes instead of canned for a more intense flavor if preferred.
- While chicken broth adds depth, using vegetable broth keeps the dish vegetarian-friendly.
- Ensure the lid is tightly sealed on the saucepan to trap steam and cook rice evenly.
- Double the recipe to fit larger crowds, ensuring consistent results by maintaining the heat settings.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a crisp garden salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette.
- Serve alongside roasted or grilled meats for a balanced meal.
Tips
- Always rinse the rice first to remove excess starch and prevent clumping.
- If you’re short on time, use pre-minced garlic to save a few minutes.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 200 per serving
- Protein: 4 grams per serving
- Sodium: 450 mg per serving
FAQs
What type of rice works best for this dish?
Long grain rice is ideal as it cooks up light and fluffy, making it excellent for absorbing flavors without sticking together.
Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
While fresh basil offers the best flavor, dried basil can be used in a pinch. Use about one-third of the fresh basil quantity.
Is it possible to make this dish vegan?
Definitely! Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep it plant-based.
How can I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Conclusion
Few recipes deliver such satisfaction with simplicity as Tomato Basil Rice. Quick to prepare, elegant in presentation, and absolutely flavorful, this dish promises to be a delightful addition to your meal rotation. Whether it stands alone or acts as a side, its harmonious blend of tomatoes and basil will leave you longing for more. So, why not give it a try? Share your experiences and any personal twists in the comments. Encouraging exploration in the kitchen is what this recipe is all about, and your feedback might inspire someone else to fall in love with cooking or tweak their own version. Enjoy!
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Tomato Basil Rice
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Tomato Basil Rice is a flavorful and versatile dish that combines ripe tomatoes and fresh basil, perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
- 1 cup long grain rice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by heating olive oil in a medium saucepan over a medium setting. Add the finely chopped onion, allowing it to sauté for around 3-4 minutes until it turns translucent and soft.
- Introduce the minced garlic to the sautéed onions, stirring for 1-2 minutes until the garlic releases its fragrant aroma. Follow up with the diced tomatoes, cooking for an additional 5 minutes to meld the ingredients thoroughly.
- Add the long-grain rice along with the broth, seasoning lightly with salt and pepper. Stir all components together to ensure the rice is fully immersed in the liquid. Bring the mixture to a boil before reducing the heat to low. Cover the saucepan and let it simmer for 18-20 minutes, permitting the rice to absorb the liquid and cook to perfection.
- Once the rice is cooked and the liquid absorbed, remove the saucepan from heat. Fluff the rice gently with a fork to separate the grains. Stir in freshly chopped basil, adjusting the seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary. Serve warm, savoring as a delicious side dish or a satisfying main.
Notes
Use fresh, ripe tomatoes for better flavor. Ensure to rinse the rice to prevent clumping.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
Nutrition
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Protein: 4 g