Savory Red Pepper and Garlic Rice Pilaf
This Savory Red Pepper and Garlic Rice Pilaf elevates traditional rice dishes with a delicious blend of sautéed onions, aromatic garlic, and vibrant roasted red peppers. Inspired by a popular dish from Ruby Tuesday, this homemade version not only offers a richer flavor profile but also allows you to customize the ingredients to suit your taste. Perfect as a side dish for any meal, this pilaf is ready in under 30 minutes and is sure to impress at your next dinner party or family gathering. Enjoy the delightful fusion of textures and flavors that make this dish irresistible.
10
Servings
150
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Butter
2 1/2 teaspoons (melted)
Onion
1/4 large (chopped finely)
Garlic
1 clove (chopped finely)
Chicken Broth
1 1/2 cups (liquid)
Instant Rice
1 1/2 cups (uncooked)
Red Roasted Pepper
1/2 (chopped finely)
Mexican Cheese
4 tablespoons (shredded)
Instructions
1
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2
Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 4 minutes until translucent.
3
Stir in the chopped garlic and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes, or until the onion is tender and fragrant.
4
Pour the chicken broth into the saucepan and increase the heat to bring it to a boil.
5
Once boiling, stir in the instant rice and reduce the heat to low. Cover and cook according to package instructions, usually about 5 minutes.
6
After the rice has absorbed the broth and is fluffy, gently fold in the chopped red roasted pepper.
7
Fluff the rice with a fork to combine all ingredients evenly.
8
Transfer the rice pilaf to a serving dish, top with shredded cheese, and serve hot. Enjoy the vibrant flavors!
Nutrition Information
9g
Fat
15g
Carbs
4g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Red Pepper and Garlic Rice Pilaf?
It is a flavorful side dish that combines sautéed onions, garlic, and roasted red peppers with instant rice cooked in chicken broth.
How long does it take to prepare this rice pilaf?
This recipe is designed to be completed in under 30 minutes.
How many people does this recipe serve?
The recipe yields approximately 10 servings.
What type of rice should I use for this recipe?
The recipe specifically calls for instant rice to ensure a quick cooking time.
Can I substitute the chicken broth?
Yes, you can use vegetable broth to make the dish vegetarian or water if broth is unavailable.
What kind of cheese is recommended for the topping?
Mexican cheese is recommended for its melting properties and flavor.
How much garlic is needed?
The recipe requires one finely chopped garlic clove.
Is this recipe considered a healthy option?
At 150 calories per serving and 4g of protein, it can fit into a balanced diet as a side dish.
Do I need to roast the red peppers myself?
You can use jarred roasted red peppers for convenience; just chop them finely before adding.
What is the first step in making this pilaf?
The first step is to melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
How long should I sauté the onions?
Sauté the onions for about 4 minutes until they become translucent.
When do I add the garlic?
Add the garlic after the onions have softened and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes.
What do I do after the broth starts boiling?
Stir in the instant rice, reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for about 5 minutes.
When are the roasted red peppers added?
Fold in the chopped red roasted peppers after the rice has absorbed the broth and is fluffy.
How should I finish the dish before serving?
Fluff the rice with a fork, transfer to a serving dish, and top with shredded cheese.
Can I use fresh red bell peppers instead of roasted?
Yes, but you should sauté them along with the onions to ensure they are tender.
Is there a dairy-free substitute for butter?
You can use olive oil or a dairy-free margarine as a substitute for butter.
What are the primary flavor tags for this recipe?
Key tags include rice pilaf, red pepper, garlic, and comfort food.
How much fat is in one serving?
Each serving contains approximately 9 grams of fat.
What are the carbohydrates per serving?
There are 15 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes, by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omitting the cheese and butter (use oil instead).
Can I use regular rice instead of instant rice?
You can, but you will need to increase the liquid and the cooking time significantly based on the rice type.
What is the serving size for this recipe?
The serving size is one-tenth of the total yield of the recipe.
Can I add extra vegetables to this pilaf?
Absolutely, peas, carrots, or corn would make excellent additions to this dish.
What if I don't have Mexican cheese?
You can substitute it with cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even parmesan cheese.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it reheats well and can be stored in the refrigerator for several days.
How do I prevent the rice from being sticky?
Ensure you use the correct ratio of liquid and avoid over-stirring the rice while it cooks.
Does this dish contain any fiber?
According to the provided data, the fiber content is negligible or not specified.
What equipment is required for this recipe?
A medium saucepan with a lid and a fork for fluffing the rice are the main tools needed.
Can I add protein directly to the rice?
Yes, stirring in cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu at the end would turn this side into a full meal.