Lemon Asparagus Rice
Lemon asparagus rice is a simple side dish made with fluffy white rice, tender asparagus, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest. It pairs well with fish, chicken, or steak and works for both weeknight dinners and special meals.
Equipment
- Colander
- Medium saucepan with lid (for the rice)
- Medium saucepan (for the asparagus)
- Slotted spoon or spider
- Large bowl
- Rubber spatula
- Zester
Ingredients
- 1 cup jasmine rice
- 1 ½ cups water
- 1 pound fresh asparagus
- 1 tablespoon chopped flat-leaf or curly parsley
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil or unsalted butter
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground pepper
Instructions
- Rinse rice in a colander until the water runs clear. Bring water to a boil over high heat. Add rice and ½ teaspoon salt. Return to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and set a timer for 15 minutes. Remove the pot from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Lift the cover and fluff with a fork.
- While the rice is cooking, snap the ends off the asparagus. Cut the stalks into 1-inch pieces and leave the asparagus tips whole.
- Bring a medium saucepan of water to a boil. Add the asparagus and cook for 1 minute. Using a slotted spoon or spider, remove the asparagus and set aside.
- When the rice is cooked, transfer the hot rice to a large bowl. Add the asparagus, chopped parsley, lemon juice, lemon zest, and olive oil or butter. Toss with a rubber spatula until combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Notes
To Make Asparagus Brown Rice: Cook your favorite brown rice according to the package directions. Stir in the cooked asparagus, lemon zest, and 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice before serving.
Storage: Store leftover asparagus rice in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or in a skillet with a splash of water. Freezing is not recommended because the asparagus can get soft.
Nutrition
Calories: 218.4kcalCarbohydrates: 41.8gProtein: 5.9gTotal Fat: 3.3gSaturated Fat: 1.9gCholesterol: 7.5mgSodium: 83.3mgPotassium: 298.8mgFiber: 3.1gSugar: 2.3g
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