When it comes to side dishes, white rice is a classic that never goes out of style. It’s a staple in many cuisines around the world, and for good reason – it’s easy to make, pairs well with a wide range of flavors, and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. In this article, we’ll explore 20 simple and easy white rice recipes that are perfect for busy home cooks, foodies, and anyone looking to add some excitement to their mealtime routine.
From classic garlic butter to more adventurous flavors like coconut milk and spicy tomato, we’ve got you covered with these delicious and easy-to-make white rice recipes. Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting and familiar or bold and international-inspired, there’s a recipe on this list that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
Garlic Butter White Rice
A simple yet flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with a variety of main courses. This garlic butter white rice recipe is a classic comfort food that’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
3. While the rice is cooking, melt the butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, until fragrant and lightly browned (about 2-3 minutes).
4. Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork to separate the grains. Stir in the garlic butter mixture and season with salt to taste.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Coconut Milk White Rice
This recipe yields a deliciously aromatic and creamy white rice dish infused with the rich flavor of coconut milk. Perfect as a side dish or used as a base for various recipes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the rice and stir to coat with oil. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until lightly toasted.
3. Add the water and coconut milk to the saucepan. Bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
5. Remove from heat and fluff with a fork. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Lemon Herb White Rice
This recipe adds a burst of citrusy freshness to your meals with the perfect blend of lemon zest, herbs, and creamy rice. It’s an easy and impressive side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon zest from 1 lemon (about 1 tablespoon)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer until the water runs clear. Drain and set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the rice to the saucepan and stir to coat with the herb mixture. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Add the water and lemon juice to the saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 18-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
6. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and stir in the lemon zest.
Cooking Time: About 25-30 minutes
Spicy Tomato White Rice
A flavorful and aromatic rice dish infused with the warmth of tomatoes and a hint of spice, perfect for accompanying your favorite protein or as a standalone side.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the rice to the saucepan, stirring to coat with oil and mix with the onion and garlic.
5. Add the water, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and fluffy.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Teriyaki White Rice Bowl
A flavorful and savory Japanese-inspired dish that combines tender chicken, sweet teriyaki sauce, and fluffy white rice, all in one delicious bowl.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sesame seeds, chopped green onions, and sliced almonds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook white rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a separate pan, heat 1 tbsp of oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add remaining 1 tbsp of oil, grated ginger, and teriyaki sauce. Stir to combine and simmer for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
4. To assemble the bowls, place cooked rice in a bowl, top with chicken pieces, and spoon teriyaki sauce over the top. Garnish with optional ingredients if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy White Rice Casserole
This comforting casserole is a perfect blend of creamy cheese, savory rice, and tender vegetables. It’s an easy and satisfying meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook rice according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened.
4. Add peas and carrots; cook until thawed.
5. In a separate bowl, combine cooked rice, heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
6. Combine cooked vegetables and cheese with the rice mixture; stir until well combined.
7. Transfer to a 9×13 inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cilantro Lime White Rice
Brighten up your meals with this flavorful and aromatic Cilantro Lime White Rice recipe! This simple dish is perfect for accompanying grilled meats, seafood, or vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the rice and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes or until lightly toasted.
4. Add the water, cilantro, and lime juice. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
5. Fluff the rice with a fork and season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Vegetable Stir-Fry White Rice
This recipe combines the flavors of colorful vegetables with fluffy white rice, perfect as a main dish or side option for any meal. With this simple and quick stir-fry, you’ll have a delicious and healthy meal ready in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook white rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add diced onion and minced garlic; stir-fry until onion is translucent.
4. Add mixed vegetables; stir-fry for 3-4 minutes or until tender.
5. Stir in soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve vegetable stir-fry over cooked white rice.
Cooking Time:
– Cook rice: 15-20 minutes
– Stir-fry: 8-10 minutes
Curried White Rice with Peas
This aromatic side dish combines the comfort of white rice with the sweetness of peas and the warmth of curry spices. Perfect for accompanying your favorite protein or as a vegetarian main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and water. Bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed.
3. In a small skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the curry powder, salt, and cumin. Cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute.
4. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork. Stir in the curry mixture and peas.
5. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pineapple Fried White Rice
This sweet and savory recipe combines the flavors of pineapple, soy sauce, and sesame oil to create a unique twist on traditional fried rice. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or as a side dish for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup diced fresh pineapple
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the cooked rice, pineapple, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
5. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring constantly, until the rice is heated through and slightly caramelized.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mexican White Rice with Corn
This classic Mexican side dish is a staple in many households, and for good reason – the combination of creamy rice, sweet corn, and savory spices is a match made in heaven. This simple recipe yields a deliciously flavorful dish that’s perfect for accompanying your favorite Mexican-inspired meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the rice and stir to coat with oil and mix with onions.
4. Add the water, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until water is absorbed.
5. Stir in corn kernels and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
6. Fluff with fork and serve hot, garnished with cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Basil Pesto White Rice
Elevate your meal with this flavorful and aromatic side dish that combines the sweetness of white rice with the savory charm of basil pesto. Perfect for accompanying grilled meats, seafood, or as a base for your favorite stir-fry.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup white rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
– 2 tablespoons pesto sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine mesh strainer and drain well.
2. Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat.
3. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Add the rice and stir to coat with the oil and garlic mixture.
5. Add the water and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
7. Stir in the pesto sauce and fresh basil leaves. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Shrimp and White Rice Skillet
This one-pot wonder combines succulent shrimp with fluffy white rice, garlic, and herbs, all cooked to perfection in a flavorful skillet. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Stir in the thyme, salt, and pepper.
6. Add the uncooked rice to the skillet, stirring to combine with the shrimp mixture.
7. Add the water to the skillet and bring to a boil.
8. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken and White Rice Soup
This classic soup recipe is a staple for any occasion. With tender chicken, fluffy white rice, and a hint of savory flavor, it’s sure to warm your heart and belly.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the onion and garlic in a little bit of oil until softened.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
3. Add the chicken broth, cooked white rice, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Egg Fried White Rice
A classic Chinese dish that’s quick and easy to make, egg fried white rice is a great way to use up leftover rice and veggies. This recipe adds scrambled eggs for extra protein and flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 1 minute.
3. Add the mixed vegetables; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Push the veggies to one side of the pan. Crack in the eggs and scramble until cooked through.
5. Mix the eggs with the veggies. Then, add the cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
6. Stir-fry everything together for about 2-3 minutes, until the rice is heated through and starting to brown.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
White Rice Pudding with Cinnamon
This classic dessert is a staple of many cultures, and for good reason – its creamy texture and subtle sweetness are the perfect antidote to a chilly day. This recipe yields a deliciously comforting white rice pudding infused with the warm, inviting aroma of cinnamon.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 3 cups milk (whole, low-fat or nonfat)
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine rice and milk. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
3. Stir in sugar, cinnamon, and salt until dissolved.
4. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Kimchi Fried White Rice
This spicy Korean-inspired fried rice dish combines the bold flavors of kimchi with the comfort of a warm, savory meal. Kimchi Fried White Rice is a delicious and easy-to-make recipe that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup kimchi, chopped
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 green onions, thinly sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the chopped kimchi and cooked rice. Cook for about 5 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
5. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with thinly sliced green onions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
White Rice Salad with Cucumber
This light and revitalizing salad is perfect for a hot summer day or as a side dish for your next barbecue. With the simplicity of cooked white rice, the crunch of cucumber, and a hint of tanginess from lemon juice, this recipe is sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 medium cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked white rice, sliced cucumber, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until the ingredients are fully incorporated.
2. Stir in the chopped parsley.
3. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None! Just mix and serve.
Black Bean and White Rice Burrito
This simple yet flavorful burrito recipe combines the comfort of white rice with the heartiness of black beans, wrapped in a warm tortilla. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 cup cooked black beans, warmed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 large flour tortillas
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, avocado, salsa
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a medium skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the cumin and cooked black beans. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until heated through.
5. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble the burritos by spooning the black bean mixture onto one half of each tortilla, then topping with cooked white rice. Fold in half to enclose.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet and Sour White Rice
This sweet and sour white rice recipe adds a tangy twist to the classic side dish, making it perfect for accompanying your favorite stir-fries or grilled meats. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create this tasty and flavorful rice dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 tablespoons white vinegar
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice, water, sugar, vinegar, and vegetable oil.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
4. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
5. Fluff the rice with a fork and season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your white rice game! This article features 20 simple yet delicious recipes that showcase the versatility of white rice. From savory dishes like Garlic Butter White Rice and Spicy Tomato White Rice, to sweet treats like White Rice Pudding with Cinnamon, there’s something for everyone. Plus, international flavors abound with recipes like Teriyaki White Rice Bowl, Kimchi Fried White Rice, and Mexican White Rice with Corn. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful side dish, these easy white rice recipes are sure to please.