Rice doesn’t have to be boring. With just a few simple ingredients, you can turn it into something that really stands out. Whether you’re looking for something cozy, fresh, bold, or comforting, this list has a mix of flavors to keep things interesting.
From spiced coconut to cheesy bakes, these recipes are easy enough for weeknights but special enough to make you look forward to leftovers.
Here’s a variety of rice dishes that bring something new to the table.
1. Lemon Herb Basmati Rice
This lemon herb basmati rice is light, fragrant, and perfect for pairing with grilled meats or veggies. The fresh lemon gives it a bright, tangy kick, while herbs like parsley and thyme bring in a gentle earthiness. It’s a great side dish that doesn’t overpower the main meal but still holds its own.
You can try this lemon herb basmati rice with this easy recipe.
2. Spiced Coconut Turmeric Rice
This dish brings warmth and comfort with its blend of coconut milk, turmeric, and gentle spices. The coconut adds a creamy richness, while the turmeric gives it a golden color and earthy taste. It pairs well with grilled chicken, tofu, or anything with a little heat.
Learn how to make this spiced coconut turmeric rice with this simple guide.
3. Gluten-Free Easy Tomato Basil Rice
Fresh tomatoes and basil come together in this easy, gluten-free rice dish that’s full of garden flavor. It’s light, bright, and perfect on its own or with something grilled. The basil adds a sweet freshness that balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
Follow this gluten-free tomato basil rice recipe right here.
4. Kimchi Sesame Fried Egg Rice
Bold and satisfying, this rice dish gets its punch from kimchi and a rich, crispy-edged fried egg. Toasted sesame oil brings in a nutty flavor that ties everything together. It’s quick to make and makes a great lunch or dinner with just a few ingredients.
Make your own kimchi sesame fried egg rice using this recipe.
5. Ginger Scallion Rice
This rice keeps things simple but flavorful with fresh ginger and scallions. It has just the right amount of heat and brightness and works well as a side or a base for stir-fries. The crispy bits of scallion add a nice texture to each bite.
Try this ginger scallion rice with this step-by-step guide.
6. Creamy Mushroom Parmesan Rice
Comforting and rich, this rice is full of umami flavor from sautéed mushrooms and parmesan cheese. It’s creamy without being too heavy and works well as a main or side dish. The parmesan gives it a salty, nutty finish that brings everything together.
You can make this creamy mushroom parmesan rice with this recipe.
7. Indian Jeera (Cumin) Rice
This Indian-style cumin rice is full of toasty, nutty flavor thanks to the jeera (cumin) seeds. It’s great with curries, lentils, or grilled meat and comes together with just a few ingredients. The cumin adds depth without overpowering the dish.
Make this jeera rice with this simple Indian recipe.
8. Sticky Mango Jasmine Rice
Sweet and lightly sticky, this dish pairs juicy mango with soft jasmine rice for a tropical feel. It’s perfect as a dessert or a sweet side with spicy dishes. The mango adds natural sweetness, and the sticky texture makes each bite satisfying.
Get the recipe for sticky mango jasmine rice right here.
9. Cajun Dirty Rice with Garlic Aioli
This bold dish gets its flavor from Cajun spices, cooked-down veggies, and a rich garlic aioli on top. It’s smoky, savory, and satisfying—perfect as a main course or a flavorful side. The garlic aioli adds a creamy touch that pulls it all together.
Try this Cajun dirty rice with garlic aioli using this easy recipe.
10. Spinach and Feta Rice Pilaf
This pilaf blends tender spinach with salty feta for a light but filling dish. The rice stays fluffy while the feta melts just slightly, giving it a creamy bite. It’s a good choice when you want something easy that still feels fresh.
Make this spinach and feta rice pilaf with this recipe.
11. Black Bean and Avocado Rice
This rice dish is hearty and fresh, with creamy avocado and protein-rich black beans. A bit of lime juice and chopped herbs keeps it bright. It’s great on its own or as a filling for wraps or burrito bowls.
Try this black bean and avocado rice using this quick recipe.
12. Sweet Chilli Garlic Fried Rice
This fried rice has a little kick and a little sweetness, making it easy to pair with lots of meals. The garlic adds depth while the sweet chili sauce brings in just enough heat to keep things interesting.
Learn how to make this sweet chili garlic fried rice with this recipe.
13. Cheesy Poblano Rice Bake
This baked dish is warm, gooey, and full of flavor from roasted poblano peppers and melted cheese. It’s a cozy option that works great as a main or a side for a Tex-Mex meal. The poblano adds a mild smokiness that balances the richness.
Try this cheesy poblano rice bake with this easy recipe.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re in the mood for something light and herby or rich and creamy, these rice dishes offer a lot of variety without being complicated. They’re flexible, flavorful, and make good use of everyday ingredients.
Next time you reach for rice, try one of these recipes to make it something worth remembering.