21 Savory Rice Side Dishes to Complete Your Meal

Rice side dishes transform this humble grain into culinary masterpieces with bold flavors and textures. These recipes elevate meals, adding variety and substance to the main course.

Each one showcases unique ways to pair rice with spices, vegetables, and proteins. Versatile and easy to prepare, they suit casual dinners or festive feasts.

These dishes prove that sides can be just as exciting as the main attraction. Try these 21 delicious rice side dishes for your next meal:

Cheesy Spinach Rice

Cheesy spinach rice is a comforting dish that combines the rich flavors of cheddar and Romano cheese with tender grains. Crafted for those who appreciate effortless cooking, this one-pot wonder transforms simple ingredients into an indulgent side or main course.

By utilizing long grain varieties like brown or basmati rice instead of instant options, you can achieve a heartier texture while still enjoying that creamy consistency from heavy cream or milk. The process begins by simmering the rice alongside flavorful bouillon and seasonings until perfectly cooked; then it’s elevated with mayonnaise, fresh spinach, and plenty of cheese stirred in at just the right moment to create a luscious finish.

With aromatic notes from minced onion and garlic complemented by dried parsley flakes, this dish brings warmth to your table effortlessly.

Curried Rice

Curried rice serves as a versatile and flavorful side dish that complements Indian cuisine beautifully. This simple recipe features the warmth of sweet curry, combined with aromatic garlic and onion, creating an inviting base for your meal.

You have the flexibility to choose from various rice types such as basmati, jasmine, or even brown rice to suit your preference. Adding extra spices like ginger or cumin can enhance its depth while tossing in vegetables like peas or carrots increases its heartiness.

For those looking to boost protein levels without meat, consider incorporating cashews or pistachios into the mix; they add a satisfying crunch alongside dishes like garlic prawns or pan-fried fish.

Broccoli and Cheese Rice

Broccoli and cheese rice presents a comforting, creamy dish that elevates any meal. This casserole pairs beautifully with chicken but stands strong as a satisfying vegetarian option on its own.

Opting for fresh ingredients rather than canned soups gives this recipe an authentic homemade touch you’ll appreciate in every spoonful. Featuring both shredded cheddar and cream cheese creates layers of flavor that blend seamlessly into the fluffy rice, making it hard to resist seconds.

Complement your serving with a crisp green salad and some crusty bread for an inviting dining experience that's sure to impress anyone at the table.

Mushroom Risotto

Mushroom risotto is a creamy Italian dish that highlights the rich flavors of various mushrooms paired with Arborio rice. Known for its unique starch content, Arborio creates an irresistibly smooth texture when cooked, making it the star ingredient in this classic preparation.

The selection of mushrooms can vary widely; from button and crimini to shiitake or even hen of the woods, each brings its own distinct taste profile to enhance your meal. Shallots and garlic add depth while fresh thyme infuses aromatic notes throughout every spoonful.

A splash of dry white wine and lemon juice balances richness with brightness, complemented by parmesan cheese and heavy cream for indulgent finish that you’ll want to savor again and again.

Brown Rice Apple Salad

Brown rice apple salad features a delightful mix of wholesome ingredients that create a refreshing and nutritious dish. Incorporating crisp Granny Smith apples with vibrant red bell pepper and fresh green onions, this salad offers both texture and flavor in every forkful.

Adding creamy cheddar cheese not only enhances its taste but also provides an extra boost of protein. A zesty combination of fresh lemon juice and cider vinegar brings brightness to the bowl, while simple seasonings like parsley, sea salt, and black pepper round out the profile without overwhelming it.

Ideal for meal prep or as a satisfying main course, you can easily make enough to enjoy multiple servings throughout the week.

Mushroom Rice

Mushroom rice offers a comforting and earthy side dish that enhances any meal. This recipe highlights the rich flavors of mushrooms alongside garlic, broth, and butter for an uncomplicated yet satisfying experience.

Various types of mushrooms can be used, allowing you to personalize your dish with favorites like portobello or shiitake for added depth. While long-grain white rice is ideal, brown rice works too; just adjust the cooking time accordingly since it requires longer to prepare.

For those looking to elevate this into a risotto-style option, Arborio rice serves beautifully in this role as well. Adding extras such as green peas or parmesan cheese introduces additional layers of taste and texture without complicating preparation.

Rice Pilaf

Rice pilaf stands out as a cherished side dish that combines simplicity and flavor with fluffy grains. This preparation allows for easy customization, making it suitable for various meals or occasions.

Utilizing long-grain white rice along with vermicelli or orzo creates an appealing texture that complements any entrée. Seasoning the dish with garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, sea salt, and black pepper enhances its savory profile without overwhelming your palate.

For those preferring brown rice, just be mindful of adjusting cooking times to ensure perfect results every time you whip this up in your kitchen while also being able to freeze leftovers effortlessly for future enjoyment.

Salsa Rice

Salsa rice is a flavorful dish that stands out for its simplicity and versatility, making it an excellent choice for any meal. This easy recipe allows you to use either vegetable or chicken broth as the base, enhancing the taste while keeping preparation straightforward.

Utilizing your favorite store-bought salsa brings convenience; however, crafting homemade salsa can elevate this dish even further. Ground cumin and garlic powder add depth to the flavor profile without overwhelming it.

You have the option to incorporate proteins like ground beef or black beans along with vibrant vegetables such as poblano peppers or corn, turning this side into a satisfying main course suitable alongside tacos or enchiladas.

Greek Lemon Rice

Greek lemon rice serves as a refreshing and zesty side dish that captures the vibrant essence of Mediterranean cuisine. Infused with sautéed garlic and onions, this dish elevates simple rice to new levels through its fragrant blend of herbs and citrusy notes from fresh lemons.

The cooking technique involves beginning with aromatic sautéing in olive oil, allowing the grains to soak up all those rich flavors before being simmered in chicken broth for depth. This particular recipe incorporates parsley, dill, or even alternatives like oregano or mint for added layers of taste.

Pair Greek lemon rice alongside your favorite main dishes such as gyros or souvlaki for a complete meal experience that celebrates traditional flavors while satisfying your palate.

Mexican Rice

Mexican rice is a flavorful side dish that pairs beautifully with any Mexican meal, from tacos to fajitas. One key ingredient that enhances its authenticity is Caldo de Tomate, a tomato bouillon that elevates the taste profile significantly.

With essentials like long-grain white rice, olive or canola oil, and rich tomato sauce combined with either water or chicken broth for added depth, this dish becomes irresistible. Seasoned simply with garlic and chili powder, you’ll find it’s straightforward yet full of character.

This easy-to-make recipe invites you into the heart of Mexican cuisine at your table tonight.

Turmeric Rice

Turmeric rice stands out as a vibrant and aromatic dish, celebrated for its eye-catching yellow hue and rich flavor profile. The use of coconut oil infuses this recipe with a delightful essence while promoting health benefits associated with turmeric.

Complemented by spices like dried thyme and ground cumin, the taste deepens further. Fresh or frozen vegetables such as green peas, garlic, carrots, and onions enhance its heartiness while providing essential nutrients you can feel good about serving.

Remember to handle turmeric carefully; it has a tendency to stain skin temporarily but is worth every bit of effort for the explosion of flavor in your meal.

Cranberry Rice Pilaf

Cranberry rice pilaf is a delightful side dish that transforms ordinary meals into festive feasts. This Persian-inspired recipe highlights the tartness of cranberries, enhanced by aromatic saffron, creating a burst of flavor with each spoonful.

Packed with your choice of nuts, like pistachios or almonds, and fluffy basmati rice, it stands out as both an accompaniment and a satisfying standalone meal. Dried or fresh cranberries can be used to suit your taste, making this dish adaptable for any occasion.

You might even consider swapping in dried cherries for an exciting variation that adds its own unique flair to the table.

Coconut Rice

Coconut rice is a fragrant side dish that beautifully complements Thai cuisine, grilled chicken, seafood meals, or any tropical-inspired feast. Its enticing coconut flavor adds depth and pairs wonderfully with various main courses.

The simplicity of this recipe shines through its minimal ingredient list, just jasmine or basmati rice combined with canned coconut milk, water (or coconut water), and sea salt creates a perfect balance of taste. For an extra layer of flavor, consider rinsing the rice before cooking; using soy sauce also enhances the overall profile while adding umami notes.

This versatile dish can easily become your favorite accompaniment for countless dinners.

Cheese Broccoli Wild Rice Casserole

Cheese broccoli wild rice casserole is a comforting dish that celebrates the earthy flavors of wild rice, combined with vibrant broccoli and rich cheeses. A delightful choice for any occasion, this casserole pairs wonderfully with hearty meats like steak or roasted chicken but also shines as a satisfying vegetarian option.

Featuring white cheddar and gouda, along with heavy cream, it achieves an irresistible creamy texture that complements its wholesome ingredients. Enhance your creation by incorporating additional vegetables such as carrots and sweet onions while balancing flavors with spices like thyme and red pepper flakes.

For optimal richness, using both olive oil and butter elevates the overall taste profile of this fulfilling dish.

Cilantro Lime Rice

Cilantro lime rice is a zesty dish that brings a burst of freshness to any meal. This popular recipe has gained fame largely due to its presence in fast-casual dining, making it an easy yet delicious option for home cooks.

With ingredients like garlic, scallions, and fresh lime juice blended with fragrant cilantro, this rice transforms into more than just a side; it complements burritos and tacos beautifully while also enhancing various global cuisines. The simplicity of preparing this flavorful rice allows you to pair it with diverse dishes beyond traditional Mexican fare.

Incorporating cilantro lime rice into your meals invites experimentation and can elevate everyday dinners effortlessly.

Southwestern Rice

Southwestern rice is a flavor-packed side dish that embodies the essence of vibrant Southwestern cuisine. Infused with black beans and an array of colorful vegetables, it serves not only as a delightful accompaniment to Mexican meals but also stands out as a hearty vegetarian option perfect for Meatless Mondays.

Featuring ingredients like garlic, green bell pepper, diced tomatoes, and yellow corn brings both taste and nutrition into play; you might even consider swapping in red beans for variety. Seasoned with smoked paprika and cumin adds depth to its flavor profile while complementing grilled chicken or tacos beautifully.

For those seeking plant-based alternatives, using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth keeps this dish entirely vegan-friendly without sacrificing richness.

Black Rice

Black rice is a nutritious and intriguing side dish that stands out for its striking color and health benefits. Often referred to as Forbidden Black Rice, it’s rich in protein while being low in carbohydrates and calories compared to other rice types.

The history behind this unique grain adds an extra layer of fascination; it was once reserved exclusively for Chinese royalty due to the belief that noblemen had monopolized its production, leaving commoners unable to grow or consume it. As a gluten-free and vegan option, black rice pairs wonderfully with various meals such as beef, chicken, pork, stir-fries, or tofu dishes.

Discovering how to prepare this remarkable ingredient using either a stovetop method or an Instant Pot can bring depth and intrigue to your dining experience.

Arancini

Arancini are delectable rice balls that showcase the culinary charm of Sicily, offering a delightful contrast to typical rice side dishes. These scrumptious bites are filled with mouthwatering ingredients like gooey mozzarella, tender peas, and rich meat sauce, making them utterly irresistible.

In Rome, you might encounter suppli, similar yet distinct creations featuring cheese without the round shape characteristic of arancini. The preparation involves coating these flavorful orbs in egg and breadcrumbs before deep-frying to achieve a crispy golden exterior.

Found in bars and pizzerias throughout Southern Italy, these treats serve as popular snack options for any occasion. For optimal results during frying, preparing your Sicilian rice balls ahead of time allows them to hold together beautifully when cooked.

Garlic Parmesan Rice

Garlic parmesan rice is a creamy, savory dish that transforms ordinary grains into an indulgent side full of flavor. Infused with sautéed garlic and enriched by the richness of butter and cheese, this recipe brings comfort to any meal.

Spinach adds a nutritious touch, making it not only delicious but also wholesome. Using vegetable or chicken broth enhances its depth while maintaining simplicity in preparation.

Whether paired with grilled meats or enjoyed solo alongside fresh salad and bread, this delightful rice dish shines on your dinner table.

Summer Squash Rice

Summer squash rice is a delightful one-pot dish that celebrates the season’s freshest produce. Featuring a blend of zucchini and yellow squash, this recipe allows for flexibility in vegetable choices while infusing your meal with color and nutrition from added carrots or even broccoli.

Opting for brown rice enhances its health benefits without sacrificing flavor. Pair it seamlessly with various entrees like beef steak, chicken, or turkey; however, you’ll find it equally satisfying as a standalone vegetarian option.

For those maintaining a plant-based diet, simply swap out chicken broth for vegetable broth to keep things vegan-friendly.

Cumin Rice

Cumin rice serves as a fragrant and aromatic dish that pairs beautifully with various cuisines, especially Indian meals like curry. Known as Jeera rice, this preparation highlights the warm notes of cumin along with spices like cinnamon and cloves, creating an inviting aroma in your kitchen.

Using high-quality basmati rice ensures each grain remains fluffy while absorbing the flavors from ghee or butter and fresh ingredients such as serrano pepper and coriander. In just about ten minutes, you can whip up this flavorful side that complements not only traditional Indian fare but also Mexican dishes, think Taco Tuesdays or sizzling fajitas on weekends.

With a simple water-to-rice ratio adjustment for different cooking methods, it’s an effortless addition to your meal planning arsenal.