20 Flavorful Long Grain Rice Recipes for Every Occasion

Are you looking for a side dish that’s easy to make, versatile, and delicious? Look no further than long grain rice! This staple ingredient is a crowd-pleaser and can be dressed up or down to suit any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a formal dinner party or just need a quick weeknight meal, we’ve got 20 flavorful long grain rice recipes that are sure to please.

From classic dishes like Garlic Butter Long Grain Rice to more adventurous options like Coconut Milk Long Grain Rice with sweet and spicy flavors in between, our collection has something for everyone. So go ahead, get creative, and let the aroma of perfectly cooked rice fill your kitchen!

Garlic Butter Long Grain Rice

Garlic Butter Long Grain Rice
Elevate your meals with this simple yet flavorful rice dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. This garlic butter long grain rice is a classic comfort food that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup uncooked long grain rice
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup chicken broth

Instructions:

1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the rice to the saucepan and stir to coat with the garlic butter mixture.
4. Add the salt and chicken broth to the saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Lemon Herb Long Grain Rice

Lemon Herb Long Grain Rice
Add a burst of citrus flavor to your meals with this simple and aromatic rice recipe, perfect as a side dish or used as a base for various international dishes.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup long grain rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 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.
3. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
4. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice, olive oil, thyme, and salt to taste.
5. Let it sit for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Coconut Milk Long Grain Rice

Coconut Milk Long Grain Rice
This recipe is a twist on traditional long grain rice, adding the richness of coconut milk to create a deliciously creamy and flavorful side dish. Perfect for pairing with your favorite curries or as a base for vegan and vegetarian meals.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup long grain white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt, to taste

Instructions:

1. Rinse the rice in a fine mesh strainer until the water runs clear.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and water. Bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
4. Stir in the coconut milk and vegetable oil. Season with salt to taste.
5. Serve hot.

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Mexican Long Grain Rice with Tomatoes

Mexican Long Grain Rice with Tomatoes
A flavorful and aromatic side dish that pairs perfectly with your favorite Mexican-inspired meals. This recipe combines the creamy sweetness of ripe tomatoes with the nutty goodness of long grain rice.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup uncooked white or brown long grain rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 medium tomato, diced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Rinse the rice in a fine mesh strainer until water runs clear.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 2 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the diced tomato and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they start to release their juices.
6. Add the rinsed rice and stir to combine with the tomato mixture.
7. Add the water and bring to a boil.
8. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Long Grain Rice Pilaf with Almonds

Long Grain Rice Pilaf with Almonds
A flavorful and nutritious side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses, this Long Grain Rice Pilaf with Almonds is a simple yet satisfying accompaniment to any meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup long grain rice
– 2 cups water or chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the rice to the saucepan and stir to coat with the oil and mix with the onion mixture.
5. Add the water or broth and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
7. Fluff the pilaf with a fork and stir in the sliced almonds.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Spicy Long Grain Rice with Peppers

Spicy Long Grain Rice with Peppers
Add a kick to your rice dish with this flavorful recipe that combines long grain rice with sautéed peppers and spices. Perfect as a side dish or main course, this spicy rice is sure to please.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup long grain rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), diced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Rinse rice in a fine-mesh strainer until water runs clear. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add onion and bell peppers; cook, stirring occasionally, until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper to the saucepan; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add rice to the saucepan; stir to combine with the spice mixture.
5. Add water to the saucepan; bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is cooked.
6. Fluff rice with a fork and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Long Grain Rice and Black Bean Bowl

Long Grain Rice and Black Bean Bowl
A flavorful and nutritious bowl filled with fluffy long grain rice, tender black beans, and a hint of lime juice. This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy meal or lunchbox addition.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup long grain rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 lime, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook the rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a separate pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the black beans, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
5. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and stir in the lime juice.
6. Combine the cooked black bean mixture with the rice and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Long Grain Rice with Saffron and Raisins

Long Grain Rice with Saffron and Raisins
Elevate your rice game with this aromatic and sweet combination, perfect for accompanying a variety of dishes.

Ingredients:
• 1 cup long grain rice
• 2 cups water
• 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
• 1/4 cup raisins
• Salt, to taste
• Unsalted butter or oil, for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Rinse the rice and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and water. Bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
4. Stir in the saffron mixture and cook for an additional minute.
5. Fluff the rice with a fork and stir in the raisins.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Serve hot, with a pat of butter or drizzle of oil if desired.

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Long Grain Rice Stir-Fry with Vegetables

Long Grain Rice Stir-Fry with Vegetables
A flavorful and nutritious stir-fry recipe that combines the comfort of long grain rice with a variety of colorful vegetables, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup long grain rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, diced
– 1 carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g. broccoli, snap peas, mushrooms)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: soy sauce or stir-fry sauce for added flavor

Instructions:

1. Cook the long grain rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the bell pepper and carrot; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in the mixed vegetables and cooked rice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with green onions or scallions if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Long Grain Rice and Chicken Casserole

Long Grain Rice and Chicken Casserole
A comforting and flavorful casserole that combines the simplicity of long grain rice with the richness of chicken, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup uncooked long grain rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 can (10.5 oz) of condensed cream of chicken soup
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook rice according to package instructions using the 2 cups of water.
3. In a large skillet, sauté chicken, onion, and garlic until the chicken is cooked through.
4. Add frozen vegetables and cream of chicken soup; stir until combined.
5. Combine cooked rice with the chicken mixture and mix well.
6. Transfer to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with shredded cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.

Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes

Long Grain Rice Pudding with Cinnamon

Long Grain Rice Pudding with Cinnamon
Soften your senses with this classic dessert, infused with the warmth and comfort of cinnamon.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup long grain rice
– 3 cups whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Instructions:

1. Rinse the rice in a fine mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture comes to a simmer.
3. Add the rinsed rice to the saucepan and stir gently to combine.
4. Reduce heat to low and cook, covered, for 18-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is creamy.
5. Remove from heat and stir in the cinnamon and butter until well combined.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Long Grain Rice Salad with Cucumbers

Long Grain Rice Salad with Cucumbers
This light and flavorful salad is perfect for hot summer days. With the combination of fluffy long grain rice, crunchy cucumbers, and a hint of herbs, it’s a great side dish or light lunch.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup cooked long grain rice (cooled)
– 2 medium cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the cooled rice and sliced cucumbers.
2. Sprinkle the chopped parsley over the top.
3. Drizzle with lemon juice and season with salt to taste.
4. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Cooking Time: None, as this is a no-cook recipe!

Long Grain Rice with Mushrooms and Thyme

Long Grain Rice with Mushrooms and Thyme
This comforting side dish combines fluffy long grain rice with the earthy flavors of sautéed mushrooms and the subtle hint of thyme. Perfect for accompanying roasted meats, stews, or as a standalone vegetarian option.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup long grain rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water. Set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent (3-4 minutes).
3. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown (5-6 minutes).
4. Stir in the chopped thyme and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and stir it into the mushroom mixture, combining well.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
7. Serve hot.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Long Grain Rice and Lentil Stew

Long Grain Rice and Lentil Stew
This comforting stew is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, made with aromatic spices and wholesome ingredients. Serve it warm over crusty bread or with a side of your favorite vegetables.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup long grain rice
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrot, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
2. Add lentils, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), and diced tomatoes. Stir to combine.
3. Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the stew has thickened slightly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Long Grain Rice with Pineapple and Cashews

Long Grain Rice with Pineapple and Cashews
This flavorful side dish combines the sweetness of pineapple with the crunch of cashews, all on a bed of fluffy long grain rice. Perfect for accompanying your favorite Caribbean or tropical-inspired main courses.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup uncooked long grain rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
– 1/4 cup chopped cashews
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)

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 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 cooks, heat the olive oil in a small skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pineapple chunks and cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly caramelized.
4. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and stir in the pineapple mixture, chopped cashews, and salt to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired. Serve warm.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Long Grain Rice and Shrimp Paella

Long Grain Rice and Shrimp Paella
This classic Spanish dish combines succulent shrimp with flavorful long grain rice and aromatic spices, making it a perfect main course for any occasion. With its bold flavors and vibrant colors, this paella is sure to impress your guests.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup uncooked long grain rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 2 tablespoons hot water
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large skillet or paella pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add shrimp; cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Add rice, saffron mixture, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Add water; bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low; simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until rice is cooked and liquid has been absorbed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Long Grain Rice with Spinach and Feta

Long Grain Rice with Spinach and Feta
This recipe combines the comforting warmth of long grain rice with the brightness of wilted spinach and the tanginess of crumbled feta. A perfect side dish for any Mediterranean-inspired meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup long grain rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Bring the rice and water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the rice is tender.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and stir in the spinach mixture.
6. Top with crumbled feta cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes

Long Grain Rice and Beef Stuffed Peppers

Long Grain Rice and Beef Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful and nutritious recipe that combines the comfort of beef and rice with the sweetness of bell peppers.

Ingredients:

– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cups cooked long grain rice
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, and paprika to the skillet. Cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in cooked rice and season with salt and pepper.
6. Stuff each pepper with the beef and rice mixture, topping with shredded cheese if desired.
7. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
8. Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes, or until peppers are tender.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Long Grain Rice with Curry and Peas

Long Grain Rice with Curry and Peas
A flavorful and aromatic side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses, this recipe combines the comfort of long grain rice with the warm spices of curry and the sweetness of peas.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup long grain rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup frozen peas

Instructions:

1. Rinse the rice in a fine mesh strainer and drain well.
2. Heat the oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the curry powder, salt, and pepper to the saucepan and stir for 1 minute.
4. Add the rice to the saucepan and stir to coat with the spice mixture. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
5. Add the water to the saucepan 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 tender.
7. Stir in the frozen peas during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
8. Serve hot.

Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes

Long Grain Rice and Sweet Potato Hash

Long Grain Rice and Sweet Potato Hash
A flavorful and nutritious side dish perfect for accompanying your favorite meals. This sweet potato hash is a delightful combination of roasted sweet potatoes, crispy onions, and fluffy long grain rice.

Ingredients:

– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup long grain rice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, paprika

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. Cook long grain rice according to package instructions. Drain excess water.
4. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add sliced onions and cook until crispy, stirring occasionally (about 10-12 minutes).
5. Combine cooked sweet potatoes, crispy onions, and long grain rice in a bowl. Season with salt, pepper, and optional spices to taste.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!

Cooking Time: approximately 35-40 minutes

Summary

Get ready to elevate your meal game with these 20 flavorful long grain rice recipes! From classic garlic butter and lemon herb to international-inspired dishes like Mexican rice with tomatoes and shrimp paella, there’s something for every occasion. Whether you’re looking for a comforting pilaf with almonds or a spicy stir-fry with vegetables, this collection has got you covered. Plus, try unique twists like coconut milk and saffron-infused rice, or sweet treats like long grain rice pudding with cinnamon. Whatever your taste buds desire, there’s a recipe here to satisfy!

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