Basil Pesto Rice Recipe
We're loving our veggie patch and are excited by the quick growing basil we see taking over the herb section of our 8' by 4' raised garden bed. I've been thinking about all the recipes, sauces and dips we can create with our selection of herbs. Since the kids love rice and basil has a sweet note, I mixed up my basil pesto rice recipe with ease. I got a great reception to the recipe at the dinner table and the kids love the fact that we're eating the bounty that they've helped cultivate.
The Parmesan cheese in this basil pesto gives the rice a creaminess that the kids love too. If you want to serve this to friends at a dinner party, scoop some pesto rice into a small rounded bowl, invert it and use the end of a knife to ease it out and serve as shown in the photo below. Super fancy and fun!
Here's what you need for Basil Pesto Rice
- 1 c basil
- 1/4 c Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 c pine nuts
- 1 clove garlic (optional)
- 1/2 c olive oil
- 1 c white or brown rice, cooked according to directions.
Here's how to make Basil Pesto Rice
Start by combining basil, cheese, pine nuts, garlic and olive oil in a Nutribullet or food processor. You can get old school and use a mortar and pestle if you like too. I just splurged for one and have enjoyed looking at it on the counter and have yet to try it for food prep! My Nutribullet is my most used kitchen appliance.
Add a little more olive oil as needed to make a pesto with the right consistency for your taste.
When rice is finished cooking or a bit of moisture remains stir in your basil pesto.
Serve with a lean protein and vegetable, preferably from your garden! Bon apetit!