Welcome to Rice Cookers 101! If you’re looking for a simple and flavorful side dish to accompany your omelette, this garlic asparagus rice recipe is a perfect choice. This dish features tender and tasty asparagus paired with aromatic garlic, fluffy rice, and a handful of fresh herbs for a boost of flavor. Not only is it easy to make, but it’s also healthy and makes for a delicious and colorful addition to any meal. So let’s get cooking! We’ve made this garlic asparagus rice recipe easy to follow 👨🍳. If you’re looking for our favorite rice cookers to make this recipe, check out our list of top rice cookers here.
Ingredients
- 1 cup uncooked white rice
- 2 cups water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse the rice in a fine mesh strainer and add it to a medium saucepan with 2 cups of water and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
- Bring the rice to a boil and then reduce the heat to low. Cover the saucepan and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked through.
- While the rice is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the asparagus to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes or until it is tender but still crisp.
- Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the skillet and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
- When the rice is done, remove it from the heat and fluff it with a fork.
- Add the cooked asparagus and garlic to the rice and stir to combine.
- Sprinkle the parmesan cheese over the top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
How long does garlic asparagus rice last in the fridge?
Garlic asparagus rice can be stored in the fridge after cooking for up to four days. It is important to store it in an airtight container as the rice can dry out quickly in the fridge. Before storing, allow the rice to cool down to room temperature. When reheating, make sure to heat it thoroughly to avoid any risk of foodborne illness. Additionally, if the rice looks or smells off or has been in the fridge for more than four days, it’s best to dispose of it to avoid any potential health risks.
Low calorie garlic asparagus rice recipe substitutions
To make this Garlic Asparagus Rice recipe lower in calories, you can make a few substitutions. You can replace the white rice with cauliflower rice or brown rice, which are lower in calories and higher in fiber. Instead of using olive oil, you can use a non-stick cooking spray or a small amount of vegetable broth to sauté the asparagus and garlic. You can also reduce the amount of parmesan cheese or use a low-fat or reduced-fat version to cut down on calories. Lastly, you can skip the salt in the recipe or use a small amount of low-sodium salt substitute. These substitutions will make the recipe healthier and lower in calories without compromising on taste.
What to serve with a garlic asparagus rice?
There are many great options to serve with garlic asparagus rice. Grilled chicken or shrimp would complement the garlic and asparagus flavors nicely, while a side salad or roasted vegetables would provide some additional balance and nutrition. Alternatively, you could also pair the rice with fish, such as baked salmon or pan-seared tilapia, for a lighter meal that is still packed with flavor. Whatever you decide to serve alongside the garlic asparagus rice, be sure to incorporate some fresh herbs and spices to really enhance the overall taste and aroma of the dish.
Whats the best sauce for a garlic asparagus rice?
There are several sauces that could complement garlic asparagus rice, but the best one would be a simple lemon and herb butter sauce. This sauce is easy to make, and it adds a subtle tangy flavor that perfectly enhances the natural earthy flavors of the asparagus and aromatic garlic in the dish. To make the sauce, melt some butter in a pan and add freshly squeezed lemon juice, chopped parsley, and chives and stir until it combines with the butter. Drizzle this sauce over the garlic asparagus rice dish for a deliciously flavorful and unforgettable meal.
Garlic asparagus rice health benefits
Garlic asparagus rice offers several health benefits. Asparagus, for example, is an excellent source of vitamin K, which is essential for healthy bones and blood clotting. Additionally, asparagus contains antioxidants that are believed to reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and diabetes. Garlic, on the other hand, is known to boost the immune system and reduce inflammation in the body. Rice contains complex carbohydrates that give the body energy and fiber that promotes healthy digestion. Consuming garlic asparagus rice is a great way to enjoy a healthy and balanced meal that provides several key nutrients and health benefits.