My pesto rice is an easy, flavorful side that turns plain cooked rice into something special. Ready in about 30 minutes with just a few ingredients, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and can also dress up a meal for guests.
I often default to simple dinners, and chicken and rice is a regular in our house. One day I stirred pesto into the rice and it instantly became a favorite. It added bright basil flavor and a little richness, and the extra steps were minimal.
Now the kids use this rice for bowls and wraps, or it stands alone as a side with hamburgers, fish, or roasted vegetables. It’s a versatile base that pairs well with chicken, beef, seafood, or a vegetarian plate.
Why you’ll love this recipe
- Quick and easy. Minimal prep and a fast finish make this a convenient side.
- Great for leftovers. Turn leftover rice into a new, delicious dish with almost no effort.
- Customizable. Add vegetables, nuts, or a squeeze of lemon to suit your taste.
Ingredients
- Rice – Use your preferred rice. Jasmine or basmati work well for a light, fluffy texture; long-grain or brown rice are fine too.
- Butter – Unsalted butter adds richness; a tablespoon is sufficient for a few cups of rice.
- Pesto – Store-bought or homemade pesto both work. Adjust the amount to taste.
- Parmesan – Freshly grated parmesan is optional but adds a nice savory finish.
How to make pesto rice
Scroll to the recipe block below for the printable ingredient list and instructions.
Step one: Prepare rice according to package directions, using a stovetop pot, rice cooker, or Instant Pot.
Step two: While the rice is still warm, stir in the melted butter so the grains become coated and glossy.
Step three: Fold in the pesto until the rice is evenly coated. Taste and add more pesto if you prefer a stronger basil flavor.
Step four: Optionally sprinkle with grated parmesan and serve warm.
Recipe tips
- Mix the butter into the rice while it’s warm for the best coating and texture.
- Different pesto brands vary in intensity—start with a conservative amount and adjust to taste.
Variations
- Rice alternatives: Substitute cauliflower rice or broccoli rice for a lower-carb option.
- Vegetables: Stir in cooked peas, asparagus, mushrooms, or halved cherry tomatoes for color and nutrition.
- Nuts: Add crunch with toasted pine nuts, walnuts, or slivered almonds.
- Lemon: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the dish and balances the pesto’s richness.
What to serve with pesto rice
Pesto rice works as a side or a bowl base. Good pairings include:
- Chicken: Grilled, roasted, or shredded rotisserie chicken.
- Beef: Steak, burgers, or meatballs.
- Seafood: Shrimp, salmon, or other fish.
- Vegetarian: Roasted vegetables like tomatoes, squash, and broccoli make a complete meatless meal.
Storage instructions
Store: Allow leftover pesto rice to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Rewarm gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water if needed to restore moisture.
Freeze: Cool completely, place in a freezer-safe container or bag, and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Frequently asked questions
Yes. Warmed or refrigerated leftover rice works well; warming it slightly makes it easier to mix with butter and pesto.
Yes. Cook the rice in the rice cooker as usual, then stir in butter and pesto after cooking.
Yes. Cooked brown rice works fine; it will have a firmer texture and nuttier flavor.
More rice recipes
- Cheesy ground beef and rice casserole
- Cheesy rice
- Copycat Popeye’s red beans and rice
Pesto Rice
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked rice
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
- ⅓ cup pesto
- ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the rice according to package instructions.
- When the rice is cooked, stir in the melted butter until the rice is coated.
- Mix in the pesto until evenly distributed. Taste and add more pesto if desired.
- Optionally top with grated parmesan. Serve warm.
Notes
- Mix butter into warm rice for the best texture.
- Start with a small amount of pesto and adjust to taste since flavors vary by brand.
Nutrition
Calories: 285 kcal | Carbohydrates: 36 g | Protein: 6 g | Fat: 13 g | Sodium: 304 mg
Nutrition information is an approximation.