Lemon Pesto Rice
Lemon Pesto Pasta made with homemade pesto is guaranteed to be a family favorite. With a hearty pesto flavor and a delicious hint of lemon, it makes one amazing side dish!
Prep Time5 minutes mins
Cook Time25 minutes mins
Total Time30 minutes mins
Servings: 4 Servings
Calories: 251kcal
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup onions, chopped
- 1 cup long grain rice
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth or water
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 1/4 cup prepared pesto sauce
- salt to taste
For the Homemade Pesto Sauce
- 1/4 cup pine nuts
- 1 bunch basil leaves
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, peeled
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly-ground pepper
In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil.
Add onions and cook until softened.
Add rice and cook, stirring regularly, for about 2 to 3 minutes or until coated with oil and lightly browned.
Add broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, and pesto sauce. Stir to combine. Season with salt to taste.
Bring to a boil and then lower heat. Cover pan with a tight-fitting lid and simmer on for about 15 to 20 minutes or until rice is fluffy and tender and liquid is absorbed.
Remove from heat and let sit for about 5 minutes. With a fork, fluff rice and serve hot.
For the Homemade Pesto Sauce
In a food processor, combine pine nuts, basil, parmesan cheese, olive oil, garlic, lemon zest, and pepper until smooth.
Calories: 251kcal | Carbohydrates: 40g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 1mg | Sodium: 470mg | Potassium: 152mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 300IU | Vitamin C: 10.7mg | Calcium: 50mg | Iron: 0.7mg