Perfect Matches: 10 Top Side Dishes to Serve with Rice Pilaf

Rice pilaf, which is often pronounced either rhyming with California or rhyming with salary, is a dish that consists of rice cooked in some broth or stock and then mixed with various other ingredients such as vegetables, nuts, spices, and herbs.

It is typically served as a side dish but can also be served as the main course.

In terms of flavor and taste, rice pilaf ranges from the very subtle to the more bold and flavorful.

When it comes to the types of rice that can be used for making rice pilaf, just about any rice will do.

However, long-grain white rice is most often used because it has a light and fluffy texture that works well in this dish.

As for the broth or stock, chicken or beef broth are the most commonly used, but vegetable broth can also be used.

A great meal is not complete without a great side dish and a delicious main course.

Rice pilaf has been served at weddings and prime rib or roast chicken for centuries.

It comes in different shapes and forms, but the basic ingredients remain the same.

In this article, we will look at ten of the best side dishes that can be served with rice pilaf.

These side dishes will tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more.

So, without further ado, let’s get started.

What to Serve with Rice Pilaf? 10 BEST Side Dishes

Before getting into the specifics, remember that rice pilaf can be served as a side dish with practically anything you wish – from steaks to vegetarian dishes.

Rice is one of the most versatile ingredients in the culinary world, and combining it with other flavors opens up a wide range of possibilities.

With this in mind, we will discuss ten foods that pair well with rice pilaf as a side dish.

1 – Green Beans with Hazelnuts

Green beans are a classic side dish, and they’re always a hit.

But this recipe takes them to a whole new level by adding hazelnuts.

The nuts add a delightful crunch and richness that takes the blandness out of green beans.

They also give the dish an extra layer of flavor, making it more complex and interesting.

In terms of pairing, green beans with hazelnuts go especially well with grilled pork chops.

The flavor is a natural complement to the black-pepper coating on the meat.

You can even serve this dish alongside your favorite seafood.

2 – Butternut Squash Risotto

If you love risotto, you have to try this recipe.

It takes the flavor of regular risotto and adds the deliciousness of butternut squash.

This dish is breathtaking.

The amazing flavors combined with the vibrant yellow hue make it a winner in terms of presentation.

Butternut squash risotto goes great with grilled chicken, and you can even add it to the soup.

It’s such a versatile side that it’ll be hard not to eat the whole thing.

3 – Grilled Zucchini with Pesto

Grilled zucchini is delightful all on its own, but this recipe takes it to a completely different level.

You add a layer of flavor that takes the dish from good to great by adding pesto.

Pesto is a sauce made with basil, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, and olive oil.

It’s an amazing addition to any dish, but it pairs especially well with grilled vegetables.

Zucchini is a perfect vegetable to grill because it has a delicate flavor that doesn’t overpower the pesto.

The result is a dish that is both healthy and delicious.

4 – Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries

If you’re looking for something festive and fun, look no further than roasted Brussels sprouts with cranberries.

This dish is adorable, but it’s not all for show.

This festive side dish will elevate your meals to the next level.

The sweet cranberries are an amazing compliment to the roasted Brussels sprouts.

They also provide a beautiful splash of color that brightens up any plate.

This side dish pairs great with roasted turkey or pork.

It’s the perfect way to celebrate the holidays – with delicious food and a festive flair.

5 – Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Garlic mashed potatoes are a classic side dish that everyone loves.

They’re simple, but they’re so good that you’ll be going back for seconds.

If you want a classic side dish that is a guaranteed winner, this recipe is the one to use.

It uses staples that everyone has in their kitchen, and it fills your home with a wonderful aroma.

In terms of pairing, garlic mashed potatoes go well with just about anything.

They’re the perfect side for chicken, beef, or pork.

You can even serve them as a main course if you’re in the mood for something comforting and hearty.

6 – Lemon Garlic Roast Chicken

There’s just something comforting about roast chicken.

It seems simple, but it offers a richness and flavor that you can’t get from most other dishes.

If you want to elevate the deliciousness of your roast chicken, this recipe is for you.

The addition of lemon and garlic makes such a difference.

Roast chicken is amazing on its own, but this recipe takes it to a whole new level.

The lemon and garlic add a delicious flavor that makes the dish shine.

You’ll love the way this recipe transforms a classic dish into something special.

7 – Saucy Maple Apple Pork Chops

Pork chops are a great choice as a main dish because they’re simple and easy to prepare.

However, sometimes the chops themselves can be bland.

This recipe adds a layer of complexity that makes the pork chops much better.

It uses ingredients like maple syrup and apple sauce to achieve a delicious result that your guests will love.

The sweetness of the maple syrup pairs perfectly with the tartness of the apple sauce.

It’s such a delicious combination that you won’t be able to resist.

Serve these pork chops with mashed potatoes and green beans for a fantastic meal.

8 – Creamy Parmesan Polenta

If you want to try something a little different, this recipe for creamy Parmesan polenta is a perfect choice.

It’s a delicious and unique dish that your guests will love.

Polenta is a cornmeal-based dish that is often served as an aside.

This recipe, it’s mixed with Parmesan cheese and milk to create a creamy and amped-up version of a classic side dish.

This recipe is great to serve alongside Italian meals like spaghetti and meatballs, but it’s also wonderful with grilled chicken or steak.

No matter what you pair it with, your guests will love this creamy addition to their meal.

9 – Roasted Root Veggies

Vegetables are a healthy addition to any meal, but they can get boring eventually.

If you want to shake things up, try these roasted root veggies.

Root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and potatoes are delicious on their own, but sometimes it’s fun to mix it up.

This recipe uses a variety of different root vegetables to create a dish that is both healthy and interesting.

The best part about this recipe is that it’s easy to prepare.

All you need is some olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Roast the veggies for about 30 minutes, and you’re done.

This side dish is perfect for those lazy days when you don’t want to put in a lot of effort for your meal.

10 – Buttery Brussels Sprouts and Bacon

Many people think that brussels sprouts are bland, but this recipe will change their minds.

This delicious side dish adds saltiness with bacon and richness with butter.

Bacon gives this side its salty flavor, while the butter creates a rich and creamy sensation in your mouth.

The best part about this recipe is that it’s easy to make.

You only need a few simple ingredients, and you can have this dish on the table in no time.

Conclusion

Rice pilaf is a delicious and versatile dish that can be served with various main courses.

However, sometimes you need a side dish that will shine.

These ten recipes are perfect for those times.

Each recipe is delicious and easy to prepare.

They’re the perfect side for chicken, beef, or pork.

You can even serve them with pasta or seafood.

No matter what you’re in the mood for, these recipes will deliver.

So, the next time you’re planning a meal, be sure to include one of these amazing side dishes.

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