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Gluten Free Rice Pilaf Recipe

Gluten Free Rice Pilaf Recipe

This Gluten Free Rice Pilaf is light, fluffy, and full of comforting flavor. Made with just a few pantry staples and naturally gluten-free ingredients, it's the perfect side dish for weeknight dinners or a simple base for heartier meals. Easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and endlessly customizable.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 220

Ingredients
  

  • 1 ½ cups long grain white rice rinsed
  • 3 cups gluten-free vegetable or chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves minced
  • ½ teaspoon salt adjust to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley optional
  • Optional toppings: toasted almonds green onions, or crumbled feta cheese

Equipment

  • Medium-sized saucepan with a lid
  • Fine-mesh strainer
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cutting board and knife

Method
 

  1. Rinse the Rice: Place rice in a fine-mesh strainer and rinse under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain well.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until translucent.
  3. Add Garlic & Toast Rice: Stir in garlic for 30 seconds, then add the rice. Toast for 2–3 minutes, stirring until rice smells slightly nutty.
  4. Add Broth & Simmer: Pour in the broth, add salt and pepper, and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes without lifting the lid.
  5. Rest & Fluff: Remove from heat and let it sit (still covered) for 5 minutes. Then fluff with a fork.
  6. Garnish & Serve: Stir in fresh parsley and your favorite toppings. Serve warm.
    Gluten Free Rice Pilaf Recipe

Notes

  • Make it your own: Add veggies like peas, carrots, or mushrooms for color and nutrition.
  • Broth matters: Use a flavorful, gluten-free broth — it’s the base of the dish’s taste.
  • Rice swaps: Brown rice can be used but will require about 10–15 extra minutes and more liquid.
  • Storage: Keeps in the fridge for up to 4 days. Freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat with a splash of broth or water.
  • Pairings: Excellent with grilled chicken, roasted veggies, or a fresh cucumber salad.
  • Gluten Free Rice Pilaf Recipe