Spring Pea Mint Pilaf (Print)

Fragrant rice pilaf with spring peas and mint, perfect as a light, flavorful side for any meal.

# Ingredients:

→ Rice & Broth

01 - 1 cup long-grain white rice, such as 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

# Directions:

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, adding frozen directly from the freezer or fresh peas 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 Tips:

01 -
  • Bright and fresh flavors from spring peas and mint offer a perfect seasonal side.
  • Simple ingredients come together quickly for an easy weeknight dish.
  • Vegetarian and easily gluten-free, fitting various dietary needs.
  • Pairs beautifully with ham or any protein for a balanced meal.
02 -
  • Rinsing the rice removes excess starch and prevents clumping for fluffy grains.
  • Melt butter gently and cook onions low and slow for the best aromatic base.
  • If using frozen peas, no need to thaw; add directly to retain their bright color and texture.
  • Letting the rice stand after cooking allows it to steam gently for perfect tenderness.
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