Spring Pea Mint Rice Pilaf (Printable version)

Tender rice blended with sweet peas, fresh mint, and gentle herbs for a bright, flavorful side.

# What you need:

→ Rice & Broth

01 - 1 cup long-grain white rice (basmati or jasmine)
02 - 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth

→ Vegetables & Aromatics

03 - 1 cup fresh or frozen spring peas
04 - 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
05 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
06 - 2 cloves garlic, minced

→ Herbs & Seasonings

07 - 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves, finely chopped
08 - 2 tablespoons fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped
09 - 1 teaspoon lemon zest
10 - 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
11 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

→ Garnish

12 - Lemon wedges

# How to Make It:

01 - Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain well.
02 - In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the chopped onion and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, until softened and translucent.
03 - Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
04 - Add the rinsed rice and stir to coat the grains with butter and aromatics.
05 - Pour in the vegetable broth, add salt and pepper, and bring to a boil.
06 - Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
07 - Stir in the peas (if using frozen, add straight from the freezer; if fresh, add them raw). Cover again and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
08 - Remove from heat. Let stand, covered, for 5 minutes.
09 - Fluff the rice with a fork. Stir in the mint, parsley, and lemon zest.
10 - Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve warm, garnished with lemon wedges.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Quick and easy with only 10 minutes of prep time
  • Naturally vegetarian and can be made gluten-free
  • Fresh, herbaceous flavors that complement any main dish
  • Uses simple, accessible ingredients you likely have on hand
  • Beautiful presentation with vibrant green peas and fresh herbs
  • Can be made ahead and gently reheated for convenience
02 -
  • Use high-quality vegetable broth for the best flavor foundation
  • Don't skip rinsing the rice—it's key to fluffy, separated grains
  • Keep the lid on while the rice cooks to trap essential steam
  • Add fresh herbs at the end to maintain their vibrant color and flavor
  • For extra richness, finish with a pat of butter or drizzle of olive oil
  • Make it ahead and reheat gently with a splash of broth to refresh
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