Pesto Rice Recipe

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Cook Time: 25 minutes

This restaurant-worthy pesto rice recipe will elevate even the simplest of dinners. With just a few simple ingredients, it transforms into a rich, flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with meats or seafood.

Pesto Rice Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
• 1 1/2 cups dry long-grain white rice
• 3 cups water
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 (6- to 7-ounce) jar basil pesto
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• Lemon wedges, for garnish

How to Make Pesto Rice

1. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook, stirring frequently, for about 4 minutes, until the onion is soft and translucent.
2. Next, add the rice to the pan and stir it for 1 minute to coat it evenly with the butter and onion.
3. Pour in the water, then season with salt and pepper. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Once boiling, cover the pan and reduce the heat to medium. Let the rice simmer for 15 minutes, or until the water has been absorbed and the rice is tender.
5. Remove the pan from heat and let the rice sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes to firm up and absorb any remaining moisture.
6. After 5 minutes, gently fold in the pesto and lemon zest until fully combined, making sure the rice is evenly coated with the flavorful pesto.
7. Serve your pesto rice with lemon wedges on the side, for an added fresh and zesty kick.

Test Kitchen Tips

• If you like a little heat, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the rice along with the salt and pepper.
• For the best results, add the lemon zest at the end of cooking to preserve the vibrant color and flavor of the pesto. Adding lemon juice directly to the rice can cause the pesto to discolor.
• Top your pesto rice with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for extra richness and flavor.

What to Serve With Pesto Rice

This dish makes a fantastic side for roasted or grilled meats. Here are a few excellent pairing ideas:

• Grilled Salmon
• Juicy Roasted Chicken
• The Best Easy Pork Tenderloin

Nutrition Facts

Each serving of pesto rice contains the following nutrients:

• Calories: 177
• Total Fat: 10g (13% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 2g (12% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 4mg (1% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 278mg (12% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrate: 21g (8% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 3g (12% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 5g
• Protein: 4g (8% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 50mg (56% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 98mg (8% Daily Value)
• Iron: 1mg (6% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 293mg (6% Daily Value)

Nutrition values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may vary depending on your calorie needs.

History of Pesto Rice

The origin of pesto rice is tied to the iconic Italian pesto sauce, which traces its roots to Genoa, the capital of Liguria. Pesto, a blend of fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil, was traditionally served with pasta. However, over time, its application broadened to include various dishes, including rice. The combination of pesto with rice is a modern twist, often seen as a flavorful side dish or main course in Italian-inspired cuisine around the world. The concept of "pesto rice" has evolved to accommodate different rice types, such as long-grain white rice, jasmine, or even brown rice, and to suit various dietary preferences.

Regional Characteristics

Pesto rice, though globally popular, is most closely associated with the Ligurian region of Italy, where the pesto sauce originated. The flavors of pesto rice are largely influenced by the availability of fresh, high-quality basil and olive oil in this region. In other parts of Italy and around the world, the dish can vary slightly depending on local ingredients. For example, some variations may include sun-dried tomatoes, roasted vegetables, or even seafood, offering a fusion of flavors that reflect local tastes and culinary traditions.

What Makes Pesto Rice Different

Compared to other rice dishes, pesto rice stands out because of its bold, herbaceous flavor profile. While many rice dishes rely on broth or spices for flavor, pesto rice gets its richness from the blend of pesto, butter, and lemon zest. Unlike typical rice side dishes, which can be fairly neutral in flavor, pesto rice offers a distinct freshness, especially when paired with grilled meats or seafood. It is often served as a side dish but can also serve as a light main course, making it versatile for various meal settings.

Where Pesto Rice is Typically Served

Pesto rice is commonly found in Italian restaurants or at home as a side dish to complement grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or seafood. It pairs especially well with dishes like grilled salmon, roasted chicken, or even a vegetarian entre like stuffed bell peppers. The dish is also a popular choice for gatherings and family dinners, providing an elegant yet simple addition to the meal. Its vibrant green color and fresh, herbaceous aroma make it an appealing and flavorful accompaniment to a wide variety of main dishes.

Interesting Facts About Pesto Rice

• Pesto rice is an easy-to-make dish that combines the traditional flavors of Italian pesto with a staple grain like rice, making it accessible and affordable for home cooks worldwide.
• While the classic version uses basil pesto, there are many variations, including sun-dried tomato pesto, arugula pesto, and even vegan pesto made with cashews or almonds instead of cheese.
• Adding lemon zest to pesto rice is a popular technique that enhances the freshness and balance of the dish, making it a perfect contrast to heavier, meat-based meals.
• Although it originated as a side dish, pesto rice has evolved into a dish that can be served as a main course by adding protein like chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
• Many chefs and home cooks recommend using fresh pesto over store-bought versions for a more vibrant and authentic flavor, but store-bought pesto still delivers a great-tasting dish with minimal effort.

Nutrition Information (per serving): 177 calories, 10g fat, 21g carbohydrates, 4g protein.

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