Spring Pea Mint Rice Pilaf (Printable)

Fragrant rice pilaf featuring spring peas and fresh mint, perfect as a light, flavorful side.

# What You'll Need:

→ Rice & Broth

01 - 1 cup long-grain white rice, such as basmati or jasmine
02 - 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth

→ Vegetables & Aromatics

03 - 1 cup fresh or frozen spring peas
04 - 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
05 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
06 - 2 cloves garlic, minced

→ Herbs & Seasonings

07 - ½ cup fresh mint leaves, finely chopped
08 - 2 tablespoons fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped
09 - 1 teaspoon lemon zest
10 - ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
11 - ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

→ Garnish

12 - Lemon wedges for serving

# Preparation Steps:

01 - Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then drain well.
02 - In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the chopped onion and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until softened and translucent.
03 - Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
04 - Add the rinsed rice and stir to coat the grains thoroughly with butter and aromatics.
05 - Pour in the vegetable broth, add salt and pepper, and bring to a boil.
06 - Reduce the heat to low, cover with a lid, and simmer for 15 minutes.
07 - Stir in the peas, adding frozen peas directly from the freezer or fresh peas raw. Cover again and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the rice is tender and all liquid is absorbed.
08 - Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes.
09 - Fluff the rice with a fork and stir in the mint, parsley, and lemon zest.
10 - Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve warm, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • Bright and refreshing flavors from mint and lemon zest elevate simple rice.
  • Quick and easy preparation, ready in just 35 minutes.
  • Versatile side dish that complements both vegetarian and meat-based meals.
  • Gluten-free and vegetarian-friendly with simple pantry ingredients.
02 -
  • Rinse the rice thoroughly to remove excess starch and prevent clumping.
  • Adding peas during the last 5 minutes keeps them tender and vibrant.
  • Letting the pilaf rest covered after cooking allows the flavors to meld and the rice to finish steaming gently.
  • Adjust salt and pepper at the end to ensure perfect seasoning balance.
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