rice and asparagus recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
rice and asparagus recipe
Jump to Recipe Jump to Video Print Recipe

The Best rice and asparagus recipe

I’ve been making this rice and asparagus recipe for years, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser in my household. The combination of fluffy rice, tender asparagus, and a hint of lemon is just perfect. I love how easy it is to make, too – just cook the rice and asparagus together in one pot, then top it with a squeeze of lemon and some grated Parmesan cheese.

My kids have grown up on this recipe, and they still request it all the time. In fact, my youngest son has even learned to make it himself – he’s quite the little chef! As for me, I appreciate how versatile this recipe is.

It’s perfect for weeknight meals, special occasions, or even just a quick lunch. And the best part? It’s incredibly healthy, too – just think about all those vitamins from the asparagus and fiber from the brown rice!

This recipe has been a staple in our family for so long that I’ve even started experimenting with different variations. I’ve added garlic and herbs for a more savory flavor, or used different types of cheese for a creamier taste. But at the end of the day, the classic version is still my favorite.

There’s something about the simplicity of this dish that just can’t be beat.

Lemon Herb Rice and Roasted Asparagus

Lemon Herb Rice and Roasted Asparagus

4.9 from 1393 votes

A simple and elegant side dish featuring fluffy lemon herb rice paired with tender roasted asparagus. The bright citrus and fresh herbs complement the earthy flavor of the asparagus perfectly.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time25 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time35 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 320 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Rice

1 cup long-grain white rice
2 cups vegetable broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 lemon (zest and juice)
2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Asparagus

1 bunch asparagus (about 1 pound, trimmed)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 cloves garlic (minced)

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
3In a medium saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat.
4Add the rinsed rice and stir for 1 minute until the grains are lightly toasted and fragrant.
5Pour in the vegetable broth and add the lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
6Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and simmer for 18 minutes.
7The rice should be tender and all liquid absorbed.
8While the rice cooks, prepare the asparagus.
9On a baking sheet, toss the trimmed asparagus with 2 tablespoons olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
10Spread in a single layer.
11Roast the asparagus in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, until the spears are tender and lightly browned at the tips.
12Shake the pan halfway through for even cooking.
13Once the rice is done, remove the saucepan from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes.
14Fluff the rice with a fork, then stir in the lemon juice and chopped parsley.
15Serve the rice alongside the roasted asparagus.

🔧Equipment

Medium saucepan with lid
Baking sheet
Chef’s knife
Cutting board
Measuring cups and spoons
Citrus juicer (optional)

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 320 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 2g❤️Cholesterol: 0mg🧂Sodium: 780mg🌾Total Carbs: 46g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 3g🥩Protein: 7g

📝Notes

For a more substantial meal, add grilled chicken or tofu on top. You can also substitute brown rice, but increase the cooking time to about 40 minutes and add an extra 1/4 cup of broth.

Watch Video Of How Lemon Herb Rice and Roasted Asparagus Works

This rice and asparagus recipe has been a staple in my family for years – and for good reason! Not only is it ridiculously easy to make (I’m talking 10-minute prep time), but it’s also packed with nutrients from the asparagus and fiber-rich brown rice.

And let’s not forget about all that beautiful flavor from the lemon and Parmesan cheese… what more could you ask for?

Whether you’re serving this at home or taking it to a potluck dinner party (which I highly recommend!) , trust me when I say that everyone will love it.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Lemon Herb Rice and Roasted Asparagus

What type of rice should I use?

You can use either white or brown rice for this recipe – both will give you delicious results. However, if you want to make it a bit healthier, brown rice is definitely the way to go.

How do I cook the asparagus?

Simply trim any tough ends off the asparagus spears and cut them into 1-inch pieces. Then, sauté them in a bit of oil until they’re tender but still crisp.

Can I use frozen asparagus instead?

Yes – frozen asparagus works perfectly well in this recipe! Just thaw it first by leaving it in room temperature for a few hours before using.

How do I store leftovers?

This recipe stores beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat it gently when you’re ready to serve again.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, making it ahead of time is one of my favorite shortcuts – just cook everything together in one pot and refrigerate or freeze until you’re ready to serve.

Similar Posts