As the sun dipped below the horizon, the vibrant colors of the garden came alive. I found myself wandering through rows of fresh herbs, inhaling their fragrant aroma. Inspired by the beauty of the garden, I decided to create a dish that would capture the essence of summer. This Garden Herb Infused Rice with Citrus Zest is a celebration of fresh ingredients that bring warmth and joy to any table.
Ingredients
1 cup jasmine rice
2 cups vegetable broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
1 teaspoon fresh basil, chopped
1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped
Zest of 1 lemon
Zest of 1 orange
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh herbs for garnish
Instructions
Begin by rinsing the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This step removes excess starch and helps achieve fluffy rice. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, allowing it to become fragrant, approximately 1 minute.
Next, add the rinsed rice to the saucepan, stirring it gently to coat the grains in the oil and onion mixture. This step enhances the flavor and adds a lovely nutty aroma. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until the liquid has been absorbed and the rice is tender.
While the rice cooks, prepare the herb infusion. In a small bowl, combine the chopped thyme, basil, and parsley. These fresh herbs will breathe life into your rice. Once the rice is done, remove the saucepan from heat, and let it sit covered for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Fluff the rice with a fork, then gently fold in the herb mixture, along with the lemon and orange zest. The citrus zest will brightens the dish, infusing it with a refreshing burst of flavor.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve the rice warm, garnished with additional fresh herbs for a delightful presentation. This dish pairs beautifully with grilled vegetables, roasted chicken, or as a vibrant base for a hearty salad.
As I savored the first bite, I was transported back to that magical evening in the garden, surrounded by nature’s bounty. This Garden Herb Infused Rice with Citrus Zest is not just a recipe; it’s a memory, a moment, and a taste of summer embraced in every spoonful.