Classic White Rice Pilaf with Herbs

Classic White Rice Pilaf with Herbs is a timeless side dish that proves simplicity can be incredibly elegant. Unlike plain steamed rice, pilaf is gently toasted in butter or oil before being simmered in flavorful broth, giving each grain a light, fluffy texture and a subtle nutty aroma. Fresh herbs added at the end bring brightness and freshness, transforming humble rice into a dish worthy of both everyday meals and special occasions.

This recipe is deeply rooted in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cooking traditions, where rice pilaf has long been cherished as a comforting yet refined accompaniment to meats, vegetables, and stews. It’s versatile, reliable, and endlessly adaptable—exactly the kind of recipe every home cook should master.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it delivers maximum flavor with minimal ingredients. The rice cooks up perfectly fluffy every time, while the herbs add a fresh, fragrant finish that never overpowers the meal. It’s the kind of dish that quietly elevates everything else on the plate.

It’s also a recipe you can rely on—whether you’re feeding family on a busy weeknight or hosting guests for a dinner party.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

• Light, fluffy, and never mushy
• Pairs beautifully with almost any main course
• Simple pantry ingredients
• Easy enough for beginners, elegant enough for guests
• Naturally customizable with herbs and aromatics

Once you try pilaf, you’ll never go back to plain boiled rice.

Recipe Overview

• Course: Side Dish
• Cuisine: Mediterranean / Middle Eastern
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 18–20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories: Approximately 210 calories per serving

Ingredients

• 1 cup long-grain white rice (basmati or jasmine preferred)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter or olive oil
• 1 small onion or shallot, finely chopped
• 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth (warm)
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill or thyme (optional)

Cooking Directions

1. Rinse rice until water runs clear
2. Sauté aromatics in butter or oil
3. Toast rice lightly
4. Add broth and simmer
5. Rest, fluff, and finish with herbs

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Rinse the Rice

Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain well to remove excess moisture.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Heat butter or olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped onion or shallot and cook until soft and translucent, about 3–4 minutes.

Step 3: Toast the Rice

Add the drained rice to the pan and stir continuously for 1–2 minutes until the grains are lightly coated and slightly fragrant.

Step 4: Add Broth

Pour in warm broth, season with salt and pepper, and stir once. Bring to a gentle boil.

Step 5: Simmer

Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15–18 minutes until liquid is absorbed.

Step 6: Rest and Fluff

Remove from heat and let rest, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.

Step 7: Add Herbs

Stir in fresh herbs just before serving.

How to Serve

• Serve alongside roasted chicken, fish, or lamb
• Pair with vegetable stews or curries
• Use as a base for grain bowls
• Top with toasted nuts or caramelized onions
• Serve with grilled vegetables for a vegetarian meal

Recipe Tips

• Always rinse rice to prevent stickiness
• Use warm broth for even cooking
• Do not over-stir after adding broth
• Let rice rest before fluffing
• Add herbs at the end for freshness

Variations

Garlic Herb Pilaf

Add 2 cloves minced garlic with the onion.

Lemon Herb Rice Pilaf

Finish with lemon zest and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

Nutty Rice Pilaf

Stir in toasted almonds or pine nuts.

Spiced Pilaf

Add bay leaf, cumin, or cardamom while simmering.

Vegetable Rice Pilaf

Fold in peas, carrots, or sautéed mushrooms.

Freezing and Storage

Storage

• Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days

Freezing

• Freeze cooled rice for up to 2 months
• Reheat with a splash of water or broth

Special Equipment Needed

• Medium saucepan with lid
• Fine mesh strainer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Fork for fluffing

Conclusion

Classic White Rice Pilaf with Herbs is a foundational recipe every cook should know. It’s simple, fragrant, and incredibly versatile—perfect for both everyday meals and special occasions. Once you master this dish, you’ll find yourself returning to it again and again as a reliable, elegant side that never disappoints.