Simple Brown Rice Pilaf

Simple brow rice pilaf is the perfect side dish to serve alongside any and all of your favorite proteins and vegetables.

The flavors here are simple and classic: shallot, garlic, and white wine. It's a versatile side dish that I love to serve with very flavorful main dishes. Recently, I served this rice with the Kalamata & Lemon Roasted Salmon that I shared with you yesterday. That fish has some really bold flavors, so it calls for a simple and complementary side dish like this one.

Did I also mention that this pilaf is made with whole grain brown rice? So, it's actually a pretty healthy side dish too!

Ingredients:

• 1 Tbs. extra virgin olive oil
• 4 shallots, finely diced
• 2 garlic clove, minced
• 1 cup instant brown rice *I use UNCLE BEN'S® Instant Brown Rice
• 1 1/2 cups fat free low sodium chicken broth
• 1/2 cup dry white wine
• Salt and pepper, to taste 

In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add shallots to the oil and saute for about 4 minutes, stirring often. Add garlic and cook for another 2 minutes, stirring constantly so that it doesn't burn.

Add the dry rice to the pan and saute for 3-4 minutes, until the rice is fragrant and toasted. Pour in the chicken broth and wine and bring to a boil. Cover, reduce heat to low, and cook for 10 minutes (or whatever time the directions on the box indicate). Remove from heat and allow the rice to sit for 5 minutes.

Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Mix thoroughly and serve as a side dish with your favorite protein and vegetables.


Want another great rice side dish? Lighter Broccoli Cheese Rice is one of my favorites!