Tomato Basil Rice Recipe

This tomato basil rice recipe is a vibrant and fresh dish that will transport your senses to a sun-drenched Italian vineyard. It combines the tangy taste of ripe tomatoes with the aromatic and slightly sweet flavor of basil, all mixed into fluffy, soft white rice. It's a simple yet flavorful dish that perfectly complements a variety of main courses, from grilled chicken to pan-seared fish.

Photos of Tomato Basil Rice Recipe

For this recipe, all the ingredients should be easily available in most homes or local supermarkets. However, it's important to select a ripe tomato for the best flavor. Look for a tomato that has a bright red color and slightly soft to the touch. The basil needs to be fresh to bring out its strong aroma and taste. When buying basil, look for bright green leaves without any dark spots or wilting.

Ingredients for Tomato Basil Rice

Olive oil: It is used to sauté the onion and rice, adding a distinct richness to the dish.

Onion: It provides a sweet and aromatic base for the rice.

White rice: It's the main carbohydrate in this dish, absorbing all the flavors from the other ingredients.

Chicken broth: It adds a savory depth to the rice, but a vegetable broth could also be used for a vegetarian version.

Tomato: It gives a tangy and sweet flavor that contrasts and complements the other ingredients.

Garlic: It adds a powerful and aromatic flavor, especially when combined with the tomato and basil.

Salt and pepper: They are used to season the dish and enhance other flavors.

Parmesan cheese: It adds a creamy and slightly salty taste, balancing out the acidity of the tomato.

Basil: It gives a sweet, peppery flavor that pairs well with the tomato, creating the classic Italian taste.

One reader, Barry Correia says:

This tomato basil rice recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are so fresh and vibrant. The combination of the ripe tomatoes and fragrant basil is simply divine. The rice is perfectly cooked and the parmesan cheese adds a delightful touch. It's a must-try for anyone who loves a comforting and flavorful dish.

Barry Correia

Essential Techniques for Making Tomato Basil Rice

How to sauté onions: In a medium saucepan, cook the onions in olive oil for about 4 minutes until they begin to soften.

How to cook rice: Add the rice to the sautéed onions and cook for 2 to 3 minutes or until the rice starts to brown a little bit.

How to simmer rice: After adding the chicken broth, tomatoes, and garlic, bring the mixture to a boil, then cover and reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for 20 minutes without lifting the lid.

How to finish the dish: After resting for 5 minutes, add 2 tablespoons of parmesan cheese and basil, then mix well before serving.

How To Make Tomato Basil Rice

Tomatoes, basil leaves, and white rice complement each other in this tomato basil rice recipe for a mix of sweet and earthy tones that pairs with any dish.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 30 minutes

Total: 40 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1tbspolive oil
½cuponion,diced
1cupwhite rice
2cupschicken broth
1ripe tomato,diced with juices, plus extra for garnish
2clovesgarlic,minced
salt and pepper,to taste
3tbspparmesan cheese,grated, divided
2tbspbasil,fresh chopped

Instructions

In a medium saucepan, cook onion in olive oil for about 4 minutes until it begins to soften. Add rice and cook 2 to 3 minutes or until the rice starts to brown a little bit.
Stir in chicken broth, tomatoes, and garlic. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Bring to a boil, cover, and reduce heat to a simmer. Cook for 20 minutes without lifting the lid.
Remove from heat and rest for 5 minutes before removing the lid. Add 2 tablespoons of parmesan cheese and basil. Mix well.
Place in a bowl, garnish with remaining parmesan cheese, additional basil and fresh tomatoes if desired.
Serve warm and enjoy.

Nutrition

Calories: 293.69kcal
Fat: 7.02g
Saturated Fat: 2.10g
Monounsaturated Fat: 3.79g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.77g
Carbohydrates: 47.18g
Fiber: 0.94g
Sugar: 3.63g
Protein: 9.44g
Cholesterol: 8.34mg
Sodium: 542.69mg
Calcium: 106.55mg
Potassium: 295.71mg
Iron: 0.98mg
Vitamin A: 32.23µg
Vitamin C: 6.64mg

Pro Tip for Perfecting Tomato Basil Rice Recipe

When cooking the rice, it's crucial to keep the lid on for the entire 20 minutes. This allows the rice to steam and absorb the chicken broth, resulting in a fluffy and flavorful dish. Resist the urge to peek or stir the rice during this time. Also, letting the rice rest for 5 minutes after cooking and before adding the parmesan cheese and basil allows it to absorb any remaining liquid, making it even more delicious.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Tomato Basil Rice Recipe

Plan ahead: Pre-chop ingredients and measure out spices before starting the recipe to streamline the cooking process.

One-pot wonders: Opt for recipes that allow you to cook everything in a single pot or pan to minimize cleanup time.

Prep in bulk: Prepare larger quantities of certain ingredients, such as chopped onions or minced garlic, and store them for future use in airtight containers.

Time-saving tools: Utilize kitchen gadgets like food processors or mandolines to expedite the prep work for your recipes.

Efficient organization: Arrange your kitchen workspace in a manner that allows for easy access to frequently used ingredients and utensils.

Substitute Ingredients For Tomato Basil Rice Recipe

olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar mild flavor and high smoke point, making it a suitable substitute for olive oil in this recipe.
white rice - Substitute with quinoa: Quinoa can be used as a nutritious and flavorful alternative to white rice, adding a nutty taste and extra protein to the dish.
chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can be used as a vegetarian-friendly alternative to chicken broth, providing a similar depth of flavor to the dish.
tomato - Substitute with red bell pepper: Red bell pepper can add a sweet and slightly smoky flavor similar to tomatoes, while also providing a vibrant color to the dish.
parmesan cheese - Substitute with pecorino Romano cheese: Pecorino Romano cheese offers a similar salty and tangy flavor to parmesan, making it a suitable substitute in this recipe.
basil - Substitute with parsley: Parsley can provide a fresh and herbaceous flavor similar to basil, adding a bright and aromatic element to the dish.

How to Beautifully Present Tomato Basil Rice

Elevate the rice: Mold the rice into a perfect round shape using a ring mold for a clean and elegant presentation.
Garnish with basil oil: Drizzle a vibrant basil oil around the edge of the plate for a pop of color and added herbaceous flavor.
Incorporate edible flowers: Place a few delicate edible flowers on top of the rice for a touch of sophistication and visual appeal.
Utilize negative space: Arrange the rice off-center on a large, pristine white plate to create a visually striking presentation with plenty of negative space.
Add a parmesan crisp: Place a delicate parmesan crisp on top of the rice for a textural contrast and an upscale touch.
Use a unique serving vessel: Consider serving the tomato basil rice in a stylish, modern bowl or on a decorative plate to enhance the overall dining experience.
Sprinkle with microgreens: Finish the dish with a sprinkle of vibrant microgreens for a burst of freshness and a refined, restaurant-quality presentation.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Tomato Basil Rice Recipe

Saucepan: A saucepan is a deep cooking pan with a handle and often a lid, used for boiling, stewing, and making sauces.
Olive oil: Olive oil is a liquid fat obtained from olives, a traditional tree crop of the Mediterranean Basin.
Chicken broth: Chicken broth is a liquid made by simmering chicken bones and vegetables, often used as a base for soups and sauces.
Parmesan cheese: Parmesan cheese is a hard, granular cheese with a nutty and slightly fruity flavor, often used in Italian dishes.
Food processor: A food processor is a kitchen appliance used to facilitate repetitive tasks in the preparation of food.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is a bowl used for mixing ingredients, such as in baking or cooking.
Knife: A knife is a tool with a cutting edge or blade, often used for slicing and chopping ingredients.
Cutting board: A cutting board is a durable board on which food is cut and prepared.
Measuring cups and spoons: Measuring cups and spoons are used to measure precise amounts of ingredients for cooking and baking.
Grater: A grater is a kitchen utensil used for grating cheese, vegetables, and other foods.
Ladle: A ladle is a long-handled spoon with a deep bowl, used for serving soups, stews, and sauces.
Stirring spoon: A stirring spoon is a long-handled spoon used for stirring and mixing ingredients in cooking.

Storing and Freezing Instructions for Tomato Basil Rice

Allow the tomato basil rice to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. This will prevent the rice from becoming soggy and help maintain its texture.
Refrigerate the cooled tomato basil rice in the airtight container for up to 4-5 days. This will ensure that the rice stays fresh and retains its flavor.
To reheat the refrigerated tomato basil rice, place it in a microwave-safe bowl and add a splash of water or chicken broth. Cover the bowl with a damp paper towel and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the rice is heated through.
If you want to freeze the tomato basil rice for later use, transfer the cooled rice to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Remove as much air as possible from the bag to prevent freezer burn.
Label the container or bag with the date and contents, and freeze the tomato basil rice for up to 3 months. This is a great way to have a quick and easy side dish on hand for future meals.
To reheat frozen tomato basil rice, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, transfer the rice to a microwave-safe bowl, add a splash of water or chicken broth, and microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the rice is heated through.
Alternatively, you can reheat the frozen tomato basil rice directly from the freezer. Place the frozen rice in a microwave-safe bowl, add a splash of water or chicken broth, cover the bowl with a damp paper towel, and microwave on high for 4-5 minutes, stirring every minute, until the rice is heated through and steaming hot.

How To Reheat Leftover Tomato Basil Rice

Stovetop method: place the leftover tomato basil rice in a saucepan and add a splash of chicken broth or water. cover the pan and heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the rice is heated through and the liquid is absorbed. this method helps to restore the moisture in the rice and prevent it from drying out.
Microwave method: transfer the leftover rice to a microwave-safe bowl and add a splash of chicken broth or water. cover the bowl with a damp paper towel or a microwave-safe lid. microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the rice is heated through. the damp paper towel helps to create steam and prevent the rice from drying out.
Oven method: preheat the oven to 350°f (175°c). place the leftover rice in an oven-safe dish and add a splash of chicken broth or water. cover the dish with foil and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is heated through. this method is ideal for reheating larger quantities of rice and helps to evenly distribute the heat.
Add moisture: regardless of the reheating method you choose, adding a small amount of liquid, such as chicken broth or water, can help to restore moisture to the rice and prevent it from drying out.
Adjust seasonings: after reheating the rice, taste it and adjust the seasonings as needed. you may want to add a little extra parmesan cheese, basil, salt, or pepper to enhance the flavors.
Serve immediately: once the rice is heated through, serve it immediately to ensure the best texture and flavor. if the rice sits for too long after reheating, it may become dry or mushy.

Interesting Trivia About Tomato Basil Rice

The tomato basil rice recipe is a delicious and versatile dish that can be served as a side or a main course. It's a great way to use up ripe tomatoes and fresh basil from the garden. This recipe is a perfect balance of flavors, with the sweetness of the tomatoes complementing the savory basil and parmesan cheese. It's also a great source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C from the tomatoes and vitamin K from the basil. This dish is a wonderful addition to any meal and can be easily customized with additional ingredients such as protein or vegetables.

Is Making Tomato Basil Rice Recipe at Home Cost-Effective?

This tomato basil rice recipe is highly cost-effective for a household. With simple and affordable ingredients, it provides a satisfying and flavorful meal. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10. The combination of tomatoes, basil, and parmesan cheese creates a delightful dish that is both economical and delicious. The overall verdict for this recipe is 9/10, as it offers great value without compromising on taste or quality.

Is Tomato Basil Rice Healthy or Unhealthy?

The tomato basil rice recipe is a relatively healthy dish, offering a balance of carbohydrates, vegetables, and flavor. The use of olive oil provides healthy monounsaturated fats, while the tomatoes and basil add vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. The onion and garlic not only enhance the taste but also offer potential health benefits. However, there are a few aspects that could be improved to make the recipe even healthier:

Using brown rice instead of white rice would increase the fiber content and provide more nutrients
Reducing the amount of parmesan cheese or opting for a low-fat version could help lower the saturated fat content
Adding more vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, would boost the overall nutrient profile of the dish

To further enhance the nutritional value of this recipe, consider the following suggestions:

Swap the chicken broth for a low-sodium vegetable broth to reduce the sodium content and make the dish suitable for vegetarians
Include additional herbs, such as oregano or thyme, to increase the antioxidant content and add depth to the flavor profile
Serve the tomato basil rice with a side of lean protein, like grilled chicken or tofu, to create a well-rounded meal
Experiment with different types of tomatoes, such as cherry or heirloom varieties, to introduce new flavors and textures to the dish

Editor's Opinion on the Deliciousness of Tomato Basil Rice

The tomato basil rice recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The use of fresh tomatoes and basil adds a burst of freshness, while the parmesan cheese brings a rich and savory element to the dish. The cooking method ensures that the rice is perfectly cooked and infused with the aromatic flavors of the ingredients. This dish is a wonderful side or main course that is both comforting and satisfying. It's a simple yet elegant dish that showcases the beauty of fresh, quality ingredients.

Enhance Your Tomato Basil Rice Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Roasted Asparagus: Toss asparagus with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper, then roast until tender and slightly crispy.

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Marinate chicken in a mixture of lemon juice, herbs, and olive oil, then grill until perfectly charred and juicy.

Fresh Fruit Salad: Combine a variety of fresh fruits such as strawberries, blueberries, and kiwi, then toss with a honey-lime dressing for a refreshing side dish.

Creamy Parmesan Risotto: Cook arborio rice with chicken broth, parmesan cheese, and a touch of cream for a rich and indulgent side dish.

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in a decadent dessert of rich, gooey chocolate cake with a molten center, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Tomato Basil Rice

Creamy Mushroom Risotto: This creamy mushroom risotto is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines the earthy taste of mushrooms with the richness of parmesan cheese and the creaminess of Arborio rice.

Lemon Garlic Roasted Chicken: This lemon garlic roasted chicken is a juicy and flavorful dish that combines the zesty taste of lemon with the savory flavor of garlic, creating a perfect balance of tangy and savory flavors.

Berry Cobbler: This berry cobbler is a delightful dessert that combines the sweetness of mixed berries with a buttery and crumbly topping, creating a perfect balance of fruity and buttery flavors.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Tomato Basil Rice

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory bites are filled with a rich and creamy mixture that will tantalize your taste buds. The combination of earthy mushrooms and flavorful filling is sure to impress your guests.

Bruschetta: This classic Italian appetizer features crispy bread topped with a vibrant mixture of tomatoes, basil, and garlic. The burst of fresh flavors will awaken your palate and leave you craving more.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth texture and decadent flavor will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Berry Parfait: Layered with creamy yogurt, fresh berries, and crunchy granola, this berry parfait is a delightful combination of sweet and tangy flavors. Each spoonful offers a refreshing burst of fruity goodness.

Why trust this Tomato Basil Rice Recipe:

This recipe is a testament to the power of simplicity and fresh ingredients. The combination of tomato and basil creates a harmonious flavor profile that is both comforting and satisfying. The use of chicken broth infuses the rice with rich, savory notes, while the addition of parmesan cheese adds a delightful creaminess. The method of cooking the rice ensures a perfect, fluffy texture with each grain perfectly cooked. Trust in the classic flavors and techniques used in this recipe, and you will be rewarded with a dish that is both timeless and delicious.

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FAQ:

How long does it take to cook the tomato basil rice?

It takes approximately 30 minutes to cook the tomato basil rice from start to finish.

Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?

Yes, you can definitely use vegetable broth as a substitute for chicken broth to make the recipe vegetarian-friendly.

What can I serve with the tomato basil rice?

The tomato basil rice pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or even roasted vegetables. It also makes a delicious side dish for a variety of main courses.

Can I use dried basil instead of fresh basil?

While fresh basil is recommended for the best flavor, you can use dried basil if that's what you have on hand. Just use a smaller amount, as dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.

How should I store any leftovers?

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.