Fruity Rice Pilaf

Looking for a flavorful side that’s as effortless as it is elegant? This Fruity Rice Pilaf comes together in under 30 minutes, combining savory aromatics with sweet cranberries and crunchy pecans. It’s the perfect make-ahead dish to elevate weeknight dinners or impress guests at your next gathering.

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Fruity Rice Pilaf

Why You'll Love This Fruity Rice Pilaf Recipe

• Cooks in under 30 minutes from start to finish

• Uses pantry staples like rice, nuts, and dried fruit

• Minimal prep – just a quick sauté and simmer

• Kid-friendly flavor with a hint of natural sweetness

• Pairs with almost any protein: chicken, turkey, brisket, tofu, etc.

• Elegant enough for dinner parties, simple enough for a Tuesday

• One-pot friendly – fewer dishes to wash

• Adds texture and color to any plate

• Can be served warm, room temp, or cold

  
  

Cooking Tips & Tricks

• Toast the rice briefly in butter before adding stock for deeper flavor

• Use warm stock to help the rice cook evenly and quickly

• Cover tightly while simmering to trap steam and ensure fluffy rice

• Don’t over-stir – once liquid is added, let it cook mostly undisturbed

• Let it sit covered for 5 minutes after cooking before fluffing for the best texture

  
  

Fruity Rice Pilaf Recipe

Prep: 10 mins. | Cook time: 12 mins. | Serves: 6

Ingredients

• 3 T. butter

• 1/2 onion, diced

• 1 T. garlic, minced

• 1 1/2 c. white rice, cooked

• 1 T. thyme

• 2-3 c. chicken stock

• 3/4 tsp. salt

• 1/2 c. dried cranberries

• 1/4 c. pecans, chopped

Let's Get Started!

1. Heat a medium saucepan on medium heat. Melt butter and sauté the onions for 3-4 minutes until onions are translucent. Add in garlic.

2. Cook rice in the chicken stock according to package instructions. Add in thyme and salt.

3. Add cranberries and nuts before serving.

How to Serve:

• Serve as a flavorful side dish alongside roasted chicken, brisket, turkey, or pork tenderloin

• Spoon into roasted acorn squash or bell peppers for a beautiful and hearty vegetarian entrée

• Pair with Mediterranean mains like lamb skewers, lemon herb chicken, or falafel for a sweet-savory contrast