18 Delicious Rice Side Dish Recipes for Every Occasion

Rice is the ultimate side dish hero—versatile, comforting, and ready to elevate any meal! Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner, hosting a holiday feast, or craving something cozy, we’ve got 18 mouthwatering rice recipes to match every occasion. From fluffy cilantro-lime to creamy risotto, these dishes are sure to steal the spotlight. Hungry yet? Let’s dig in!

Garlic Butter Herb Rice

This fragrant, buttery rice is a simple side dish that steals the show with its rich garlic flavor and fresh herbs.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup long-grain white rice (like jasmine or basmati)
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
3. Add the rice and stir to coat in the butter, toasting lightly for 1–2 minutes.
4. Pour in the broth, then add the salt and black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes (or per package instructions).
5. Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork, then stir in the remaining 1 tbsp butter, parsley, and thyme.

The key here is toasting the rice in garlic butter first—it adds a nutty depth that makes this dish taste restaurant-worthy.

Tip: For extra richness, swap half the broth for coconut milk and add a squeeze of lime at the end!

Coconut Lime Rice

This fragrant, slightly tropical side dish turns plain rice into something special with just a few pantry staples—perfect for pairing with grilled meats or curries.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup jasmine rice (or long-grain white rice), rinsed
• 1 (13.5 oz) can full-fat coconut milk
• 3/4 cup water
• 1 tbsp lime zest (from about 2 limes)
• 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
• 1 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 2 tbsp chopped cilantro (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine rinsed rice, coconut milk, water, lime zest, lime juice, sugar, and salt. Stir gently to dissolve the sugar and salt.
2. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then immediately reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes (no peeking!).
3. Turn off heat and let rice steam, still covered, for 10 minutes. Fluff with a fork—the grains should be tender and lightly sticky.
4. Garnish with cilantro if using. Serve warm.

The coconut milk gives the rice a creamy richness, while the lime cuts through with just the right amount of brightness—no one will guess how simple it is!

Tip: For extra texture, toast 1/4 cup shredded coconut in a dry skillet until golden and sprinkle on top.

Spanish Rice with Tomatoes

This vibrant Spanish rice is packed with smoky paprika and sweet tomatoes—a one-pan wonder that pairs perfectly with grilled chicken or stands strong as a vegetarian main.

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 3/4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and bell pepper; cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.
2. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the rice and toast for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juices), 1 3/4 cups broth, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp cumin, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18–20 minutes until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
4. Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and garnish with cilantro if using.

The secret here? Toasting the rice first gives it a nutty depth that balances the bright tomatoes and smoky spices. Serve with lime wedges for a zesty kick!

Tip: For extra texture, stir in a handful of thawed frozen peas with the tomatoes.

Jasmine Rice with Peas and Carrots

This fragrant jasmine rice dish is studded with sweet peas and carrots, making it a colorful, comforting side that pairs beautifully with almost any protein.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup jasmine rice, rinsed
• 1 ½ cups water
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• ½ cup diced carrots (¼-inch pieces)
• ½ cup frozen peas, thawed
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp lemon zest (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, heat 1 tbsp olive oil and 1 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add diced carrots and sauté for 3 minutes until slightly softened.
2. Stir in jasmine rice and toast for 1 minute, coating it evenly with the oil and butter. Pour in 1 ½ cups water, add ½ tsp salt and ¼ tsp black pepper, and bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes (no peeking!). Remove from heat, then gently fold in peas and lemon zest (if using). Let sit covered for 5 minutes to steam the peas.
4. Fluff with a fork before serving.

The lemon zest brightens the earthy sweetness of the peas and carrots, while the jasmine rice stays perfectly fluffy—no mush here!

Tip: For extra flavor, swap water with chicken or vegetable broth.

Lemon Parmesan Rice

Bright, zesty, and packed with savory depth, this Lemon Parmesan Rice is a simple side dish that steals the show with minimal effort.

• 1 cup long-grain white rice (like jasmine or basmati)
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 small shallot, finely minced (about 2 tbsp)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp lemon zest (from about 1 large lemon)
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

1. In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tbsp unsalted butter over medium heat. Add 1 small shallot and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened. Stir in 2 cloves garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Add 1 cup long-grain white rice, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper, stirring to coat the rice in the butter. Pour in 2 cups low-sodium broth and bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15–18 minutes until the liquid is absorbed and rice is tender. Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
4. Fluff the rice with a fork, then gently fold in 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, 1 tbsp lemon zest, and 2 tbsp lemon juice. Garnish with 1 tbsp chopped parsley (if using).

The magic here is in the balance—tangy lemon brightens the rich, nutty Parmesan, while the buttery rice soaks up every bit of flavor. Tip: For extra texture, toast the rice in the butter for 1–2 minutes before adding the broth.

Cilantro Lime Rice

Bright, zesty, and packed with fresh flavor, this cilantro lime rice is the perfect sidekick for tacos, grilled meats, or burrito bowls.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
• 1 3/4 cups water
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh cilantro
• 2 tbsp fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
• 1 tsp lime zest

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice, water, and 1/2 tsp salt. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
2. Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
3. Stir in the butter, 1/4 cup cilantro, 2 tbsp lime juice, and 1 tsp lime zest until fully combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

The lime zest adds a fragrant pop, while the butter makes every grain luxuriously tender—no dry, clumpy rice here!

Tip: For extra depth, toast the rinsed rice in the butter for 1–2 minutes before adding water.

Mexican Rice with Black Beans

This hearty, flavorful rice dish is a one-pan wonder—packed with smoky spices and protein-rich black beans for a satisfying meal any night of the week.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 ¾ cups vegetable broth
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp chili powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for 3 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Add the rice, 1 tsp cumin, 1 tsp smoked paprika, ½ tsp chili powder, and ½ tsp salt. Toast for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juices), black beans, and 1 ¾ cups vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18–20 minutes until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
4. Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and garnish with cilantro.

The smoky paprika and cumin give this rice a deep, almost charred flavor—like it’s been cooked over a campfire—while the black beans add a creamy contrast. Tip: For extra richness, stir in a pat of butter before serving.

Fried Rice with Vegetables

This veggie-packed fried rice is a quick, flavorful way to turn leftover rice into a satisfying meal—ready in under 20 minutes!

Ingredients:

• 3 cups cooked and cooled jasmine rice (day-old works best)
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil, divided
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 1 cup diced carrots (about 2 medium)
• 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
• 3 green onions, thinly sliced (white and green parts separated)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
• 1 tsp sugar
• ½ tsp white pepper

Instructions:

1. Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high. Add beaten eggs and scramble until just set, about 1 minute. Transfer to a plate.
2. Add remaining 1 tbsp vegetable oil to the skillet. Sauté carrots for 2 minutes until slightly softened. Stir in peas, white parts of green onions, and garlic; cook 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add rice, breaking up clumps with a spatula. Cook undisturbed for 1 minute to lightly crisp the bottom, then toss.
4. Pour in soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and white pepper. Stir-fry 2 minutes until evenly coated. Fold in scrambled eggs and green onion tops.

The secret? Letting the rice sit undisturbed for that golden crust—it adds irresistible texture to every bite.

Tip: For extra umami, swap 1 tbsp soy sauce with oyster sauce or add a splash of mirin.

Wild Rice Pilaf with Mushrooms

This hearty wild rice pilaf is packed with earthy mushrooms and aromatic herbs—a comforting side dish that steals the show.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup wild rice blend, rinsed
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
• 8 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced
• 1 small shallot, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine wild rice blend and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 45 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
2. Meanwhile, heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add mushrooms and cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and tender. Transfer to a plate.
3. In the same skillet, heat remaining 1 tbsp olive oil. Add shallot and cook for 2 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic, thyme, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper; cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Fluff cooked rice with a fork and gently fold in mushrooms, shallot mixture, and parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

The nutty wild rice and savory mushrooms create a satisfying chew, while the fresh herbs brighten every bite. Tip: For extra richness, stir in a pat of butter just before serving.

Basmati Rice with Saffron and Almonds

This fragrant Basmati Rice with Saffron and Almonds is a showstopper side dish—golden, nutty, and just luxurious enough for weeknights or special occasions.

• 1 ½ cups basmati rice, rinsed and drained
• 2 ¼ cups water
• ¼ cup sliced almonds
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• ½ tsp sugar
• ¼ tsp saffron threads, steeped in 2 tbsp warm water
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

1. In a small bowl, combine the saffron threads with 2 tbsp warm water; set aside to bloom for 10 minutes.
2. Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the sliced almonds and toast, stirring frequently, for 2–3 minutes until golden. Remove half the almonds and set aside for garnish.
3. Add the rinsed basmati rice to the pan with the remaining almonds and butter. Stir to coat the rice, then pour in the water, salt, and sugar. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and drizzle the saffron water over the rice without stirring. Cover and let sit for 5 minutes to allow the steam to distribute the color.
5. Fluff the rice gently with a fork, then transfer to a serving dish. Garnish with the reserved toasted almonds and parsley (if using).

The saffron infuses every grain with its floral aroma, while the buttery almonds add a satisfying crunch—elevating simple rice to something truly special.

Tip: For extra fragrance, toast the whole saffron threads lightly in a dry pan before steeping.

Teriyaki Pineapple Rice

This sweet-savory fried rice gets a tropical twist with juicy pineapple and sticky teriyaki glaze—perfect for turning leftover rice into something special.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked white or brown rice (day-old works best)
• 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks (or canned, drained)
• 1/3 cup diced red bell pepper
• 1/4 cup sliced green onions
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil, divided
• 2 tbsp teriyaki sauce
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp toasted sesame oil
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional garnish)

Instructions:

1. Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high. Add pineapple chunks and red bell pepper; cook 3–4 minutes until lightly charred. Remove and set aside.
2. Add remaining 1 tbsp vegetable oil to the skillet. Break up rice with your hands, then add to the pan. Stir-fry 3 minutes until heated through.
3. Reduce heat to medium. Pour in teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic powder, and black pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
4. Return pineapple and peppers to the skillet with green onions. Cook 1 minute more, just to combine.
5. Garnish with sesame seeds if using. Serve immediately.

The caramelized pineapple adds pops of brightness against the umami-rich rice, while a hint of sesame oil ties it all together.

Tip: For extra texture, top with crispy fried shallots or crushed peanuts.

Curried Rice with Raisins

This fragrant, slightly sweet curried rice is a one-pot wonder that brings warmth to any weeknight dinner—plus, it’s ready in under 30 minutes!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup basmati rice, rinsed
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp curry powder
• ½ tsp ground turmeric
• ¼ tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp salt
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
• ⅓ cup raisins
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and cook, stirring often, for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic, curry powder, turmeric, cinnamon, and salt; cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Add rice and stir to coat in the spices. Pour in broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
3. Remove from heat, stir in raisins, and let sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and garnish with cilantro if using.

The golden-hued rice gets a subtle sweetness from plump raisins, while the spices add just the right warmth without overpowering. Tip: For extra texture, toast the raisins in a dry skillet for 1 minute before adding them!

Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole

This comforting casserole combines tender broccoli, creamy rice, and a gooey cheese sauce for a side dish that steals the spotlight.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked white rice (or 1 cup uncooked, prepared according to package)
• 3 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped into bite-sized pieces
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, mix condensed cream of mushroom soup, whole milk, garlic powder (1 tsp), onion powder (1/2 tsp), black pepper (1/4 tsp), and salt (1/4 tsp) until smooth.
3. Fold in cooked white rice, broccoli florets, and 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese until evenly coated.
4. Transfer mixture to the baking dish and top with remaining 1/2 cup cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup).
5. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and the cheese is golden at the edges.

The Parmesan adds a nutty depth to the creamy sauce, while the broccoli stays perfectly crisp-tender—no mushy veggies here!

Tip: For extra crunch, sprinkle buttered breadcrumbs over the cheese before baking.

Kimchi Fried Rice

This spicy, tangy fried rice is a quick and satisfying meal that packs a punch of umami—perfect for using up leftover rice and kimchi!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
• 1 cup chopped kimchi, plus 2 tbsp kimchi juice
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 green onion, thinly sliced
• 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high. Add the kimchi and stir-fry for 2 minutes until slightly caramelized.
2. Push the kimchi to one side, add the remaining 1 tbsp vegetable oil to the empty space, and crack in the eggs. Scramble until just set, about 1 minute, then mix with the kimchi.
3. Add the rice, breaking up clumps with a spatula. Stir-fry for 3 minutes until heated through.
4. Drizzle in the soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and kimchi juice. Toss everything together and cook for another 2 minutes.
5. Garnish with green onion and sesame seeds (if using). Serve hot!

The magic here? The fermented tang of kimchi and crispy-edged rice create a bold, addictive flavor in under 15 minutes.

Tip: For extra crunch, press the rice down in the pan for a minute before stirring—it’ll develop a delicious golden crust.

Mediterranean Rice with Olives and Feta

This vibrant one-pot dish is packed with briny olives, creamy feta, and fresh herbs—perfect for a quick weeknight dinner with Mediterranean flair.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice (like basmati or jasmine)
• 2 ¼ cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup diced red bell pepper
• ½ cup pitted Kalamata olives, halved
• ⅓ cup crumbled feta cheese
• 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a medium pot, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add red bell pepper and sauté for 3 minutes until slightly softened.
2. Stir in rice, 1 tsp oregano, ½ tsp garlic powder, ¼ tsp salt, and ¼ tsp black pepper. Toast for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in 2 ¼ cups broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes (or until liquid is absorbed).
4. Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff rice with a fork, then gently fold in ½ cup olives, 1 tbsp lemon juice, and ⅓ cup feta.
5. Garnish with 2 tbsp parsley before serving.

The tangy pop of feta and olives against the fluffy rice makes this dish irresistibly craveable—plus, it comes together in just one pot!

Tip: For extra freshness, add a handful of cherry tomatoes or diced cucumber just before serving.

Spicy Cajun Rice

This Spicy Cajun Rice is a one-pot wonder that packs bold flavor and just the right amount of heat—perfect for weeknight dinners when you crave something hearty but fuss-free.

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb andouille sausage, sliced into rounds
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice, rinsed
• 2 ½ cups chicken broth
• 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• ½ tsp salt
• 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high. Add andouille sausage and cook for 4–5 minutes until browned. Transfer to a plate.
2. In the same pot, sauté onion, bell pepper, and celery for 5 minutes until softened. Stir in 3 garlic cloves and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add rice, 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning, 1 tsp smoked paprika, ½ tsp cayenne, and ½ tsp salt. Toast for 1 minute, stirring to coat the rice.
4. Pour in 2 ½ cups chicken broth and return the sausage to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18–20 minutes until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
5. Fluff with a fork, garnish with green onions, and serve hot.

The smoky andouille and Cajun spices infuse every grain of rice, while the “holy trinity” of veggies adds just the right crunch. Tip: For extra depth, deglaze the pot with a splash of beer before adding the broth.

Sweet and Savory Cranberry Rice

This vibrant rice dish balances tart cranberries with warm spices for a side that’s as festive as it is comforting—perfect for elevating weeknight dinners or holiday spreads.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup long-grain white rice (like jasmine or basmati)
• 1 ½ cups chicken or vegetable broth
• ½ cup dried cranberries
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp ground allspice
• 1 tbsp honey
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ cup chopped toasted pecans (optional garnish)

Instructions:

1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for 3 minutes until translucent. Stir in the garlic, 1 tsp cinnamon, and ½ tsp allspice; cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the rice, cranberries, 1 ½ cups broth, 1 tbsp honey, and ½ tsp salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes (or until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender).
4. Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and garnish with pecans if using.

The magic here is in the contrast—chewy cranberries and fluffy rice soak up the spiced honey glaze, while pecans add a buttery crunch. It’s a side that steals the show without fuss.

Tip: For extra depth, toast the rice in the oil for 1 minute before adding liquid—it amps up the nutty flavor!

Herbed Rice with Roasted Garlic

This fragrant, garlicky rice dish is a simple yet elegant side that pairs beautifully with roasted meats or grilled veggies.

Ingredients:

• 1 head garlic
• 1 tbsp olive oil, divided
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 1 3/4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh thyme

Instructions:

1. Roast the garlic: Preheat oven to 400°F. Slice off the top 1/4 of the garlic head to expose cloves, drizzle with 1/2 tbsp olive oil, wrap in foil, and roast for 40 minutes until soft and golden. Let cool slightly, then squeeze cloves from skins.
2. Toast the rice: In a medium saucepan, heat remaining 1/2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add rice and cook, stirring, for 2 minutes until lightly toasted.
3. Simmer: Add broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes (no peeking!).
4. Finish: Remove from heat, let sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork, then stir in roasted garlic, parsley, and thyme.

The slow-roasted garlic melts into the rice, creating a subtle sweetness that balances the fresh herbs perfectly.

Tip: For extra depth, swap 1/4 cup of broth with dry white wine in step 3.

Conclusion

With 18 flavorful rice side dishes to choose from, there’s something here for every meal—whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering. We hope you find a new favorite! Don’t forget to leave a comment telling us which recipe you loved most, and share this roundup on Pinterest so others can enjoy these tasty ideas too. Happy cooking!