Rice side dishes are a beloved staple in Southern cuisine. Whether it’s Creole jambalaya, Lowcountry red rice, or classic chicken bog, Southerners have a deep appreciation for the versatility and comforting nature of rice dishes. In this collection, we have rounded up 15 delicious and easy-to-make traditional rice side dishes that are perfect for family meals. From broccoli-and-rice casserole to mushroom-speckled wild rice, these recipes cover all bases and are sure to satisfy any craving. Plus, we’ve added our own unique twists to some dishes, like Lima Bean Fried Rice with a Southern twist and Squash-and-Green-Chile Casserole with Tex-Mex flair. Whether you’re looking for a classic favorite or want to try something new, these rice side dishes are a great addition to any meal.
Key Takeaways:
- Traditional rice side dishes are a versatile and comforting addition to family meals.
- We have compiled a collection of 15 easy and delicious recipes for traditional rice side dishes.
- From broccoli-and-rice casserole to mushroom-speckled wild rice, there is something for everyone.
- We’ve also included unique twists on traditional favorites, such as Lima Bean Fried Rice and Squash-and-Green-Chile Casserole.
- Whether you’re a beginner or an expert in the kitchen, these recipes are perfect for any skill level.
Okra and Rice Casserole
This okra and rice casserole is a delightful combination of tender sautéed okra, sweet corn, bell pepper, fresh tomatoes, Cajun spices, and buttery garlic breadcrumbs. It’s a flavorful and satisfying side dish that pairs well with any main course. The Southern-inspired flavors make this casserole a true crowd-pleaser.
If you’re looking for a hearty vegetable casserole with a touch of Southern charm, this okra and rice casserole recipe is a must-try. The combination of sautéed okra, sweet corn, and bell pepper creates a medley of flavors that perfectly complement the fluffy rice. The addition of fresh tomatoes adds a burst of freshness to the dish, while Cajun spices add a hint of heat and complexity.
One of the highlights of this dish is the buttery garlic breadcrumbs. They add a crunchy and flavorful topping that takes this casserole to the next level. The combination of golden breadcrumbs and aromatic garlic creates irresistible texture and taste.
This okra and rice casserole is not only delicious but also easy to make. With just a few simple steps, you can have a mouthwatering vegetable casserole ready to serve to your family and friends. It’s a versatile side dish that can be enjoyed year-round and is particularly popular during summer cookouts and family gatherings.
Whether you’re a fan of okra or looking for a new way to incorporate more vegetables into your meals, this Southern rice casserole is sure to impress. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a standout dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Next time you’re planning a meal, consider adding this okra and rice casserole to your menu. It’s a flavorful and satisfying side dish that will elevate your meal and leave your guests asking for the recipe.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups okra, sliced
- 1 cup sweet corn
- 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup fresh tomatoes, diced
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 teaspoon Cajun spices
- 1/2 cup garlic breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the okra, corn, bell pepper, and tomatoes to the skillet. Sauté for 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Stir in the cooked rice and Cajun spices. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and sprinkle the garlic breadcrumbs evenly over the top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Enjoy this flavorful and satisfying okra and rice casserole as a side dish with your favorite main course. Its Southern charm and delicious blend of ingredients are sure to make it a family favorite.
Cheesy Broccoli-and-Rice Casserole
For a classic Southern side dish, it doesn’t get much better than cheesy broccoli-and-rice casserole. This recipe combines the goodness of tender broccoli florets with a creamy cheese sauce, all baked to perfection. The addition of rice adds heartiness and makes this dish a complete meal on its own. It’s easy to make and always a hit at family gatherings.
When it comes to comfort food, Southern cuisine never disappoints. This cheesy broccoli-and-rice casserole embodies the best of traditional Southern cooking – warm, hearty, and downright delicious. It’s the perfect side dish to accompany your favorite main course or as a standalone meal for those cozy nights in.
To make this cheesy broccoli-and-rice casserole, start by cooking the rice according to package instructions. While the rice is cooking, blanch the broccoli florets in boiling salted water until tender-crisp. Drain well and set aside.
In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour to create a roux, then gradually whisk in milk until smooth and thickened. Add shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper, stirring until the cheese has melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth.
In a greased baking dish, combine the cooked rice, blanched broccoli, and the creamy cheese sauce. Gently fold the ingredients together until evenly coated. Top with an additional sprinkle of shredded cheese and breadcrumbs for added texture and flavor.
Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbling, and the top is golden brown and crispy. Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply craving some comfort food, this cheesy broccoli-and-rice casserole is sure to satisfy. With its creamy cheese sauce, tender broccoli, and fluffy rice, it’s a dish that will quickly become a favorite among both kids and adults. So go ahead and indulge in the comforting flavors of the South with this delicious casserole.
Herbed Wild Rice Dressing
Looking for a flavorful rice dressing to impress your guests this Thanksgiving? This herbed wild rice dressing recipe is a perfect choice. With its blend of fragrant herbs and wild rice, it elevates the traditional side dish to a whole new level of deliciousness. Whether you’re hosting a holiday feast or simply craving a comforting meal, this crowd-pleaser won’t disappoint.
Simple Ingredients, Big Flavors
What sets this herbed wild rice dressing apart is its combination of aromatic herbs and wholesome ingredients. You’ll need:
- Wild rice
- Onion and celery
- Fresh herbs like thyme, sage, and parsley
- Butter
- Chicken or vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
The wild rice adds a nutty and earthy flavor, while the combination of herbs provides a fragrant and savory taste. It’s a delightful medley of flavors that complements any main course.
A Thanksgiving Side Dish That Impresses
As you gather with your loved ones to celebrate Thanksgiving, this herbed wild rice dressing will be a standout addition to your festive spread. Its rich flavors and comforting textures make it a perfect accompaniment to roasted chicken or turkey.
“The herbed wild rice dressing was the star of our Thanksgiving meal. Everyone loved its unique flavors and asked for the recipe!” – Emily, satisfied home cook
Serve the dressing hot and watch as your guests go back for seconds, and maybe even thirds. Its appeal extends beyond the holiday season and is equally delightful as a side dish for Sunday night dinners or any special occasion.
Easy Preparation, Stunning Results
Don’t let the impressive flavors of this herbed wild rice dressing fool you – it’s surprisingly easy to make. Simply sauté the onion and celery in butter, add the wild rice, herbs, and broth, and let it simmer until the rice is tender and the flavors meld together. The result is a deliciously satisfying dish that will have everyone coming back for more.
So, why wait? Try this herbed wild rice dressing recipe today and discover a flavorful Thanksgiving side dish that will become a family favorite. Your taste buds will thank you!
Collard Green Creole Dirty Rice
Dirty rice is a beloved Southern dish, and this recipe takes it to the next level by incorporating collard greens. The combination of spicy sausage, flavorful seasonings, and collard greens gives this dish a unique twist. It’s a filling and satisfying side dish that pairs well with any main course. The addition of collard greens adds a healthy dose of vitamins and minerals to this delicious rice dish.
For those who love the rich flavors of Cajun cuisine, this Collard Green Creole Dirty Rice recipe is a must-try. It combines the bold flavors of Creole seasonings with the earthy taste of collard greens. The result is a hearty and flavorful dish that will transport you straight to the heart of Louisiana.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound spicy sausage, casing removed
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 4 cups collard greens, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Creole seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium heat, breaking it up into small pieces. Once browned, remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté the onion, bell pepper, and garlic until softened.
- Add the cooked rice, collard greens, Creole seasoning, dried thyme, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the collard greens are tender.
- Stir in the cooked sausage and let it heat through.
- Remove from heat and serve hot.
Enjoy this Collard Green Creole Dirty Rice as a side dish with your favorite Southern recipes or as a flavorful main course. Its Cajun flavors and nutritious collard greens make it a crowd-pleaser that you’ll want to make again and again.
Arroz Verde (Mexican Green Rice)
If you’re looking to add a pop of color to your plate, this Mexican green rice is the perfect choice. Made with cilantro and spinach, this dish takes just 15 minutes to prepare. The vibrant green color and fresh flavors make it a visually appealing and delicious side dish. Serve it alongside your favorite Mexican main course for a complete and flavorful meal.