This creamy asparagus rice makes a delicious side dish with your protein or even a creamy main dish.
Course: Side Dish
Author: Sara @ Mom Endeavors
Ingredients
1.5cupslong grain white rice
1bunch of asparagus
3 - 4cupsvegetableor chicken broth
1medium oniondiced
2clovesof garliccrushed
1/2cuphalf & half
1cupfreshly grated Parmesan cheese
2tablespoonsolive oil
2tablespoonsbutter
small handful of fresh basil and parsley
1/4teaspoonsalt
1/2teaspoonblack pepper
Instructions
Trim the tough ends off of the asparagus and cut remaining into 1" pieces. Set aside.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
When the oil is hot, add the onion and cook for 2-3 minutes. Add the rice and cook for 3 minutes more or until lightly browned. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about one minute.
Add 3 cups of the broth to the rice, stir and cover. Turn the heat down to medium-low and cook for 10 minutes.
Add the asparagus to the rice and stir to combine. Cover and continue cooking until all the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender, about 10 more minutes.
When the rice is done, turn the heat down to low and add the half & half, butter, Parmesan, salt and pepper. Stir constantly until the cheese is worked in and the dish is nice and creamy. Add additional broth as needed to loosen up the dish.
Remove from heat and stir in the fresh herbs. Adjust seasonings to taste.
Serve immediately with extra Parmesan and/or fresh herbs on top, if desired.
Notes
The cooking time can be slightly different depending on the brand of rice. If your rice isn't tender after 20 minutes (and there is no more liquid), you can add a bit more broth and continue cooking until it is.