Have you ever tasted a dish that transports you to a tropical paradise? Pineapple rice does just that! With its vibrant colors and a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors, this dish is not only visually appealing but also tantalizes your taste buds. Whether you’re preparing for a family dinner or a summer barbecue, pineapple rice is the perfect accompaniment to elevate your meal.

This recipe combines fluffy rice with succulent chunks of fresh pineapple, crunchy vegetables, and fragrant spices. It’s a versatile dish that complements grilled meats or can stand alone as a refreshing vegetarian option. Imagine serving this at your next gathering as guests savor each bite, reminiscing about sun-soaked beach vacations. Get ready for an explosion of flavor with every forkful!

Why You’ll Love This pineapple rice

• Vibrant Flavors: The combination of sweet pineapple with savory ingredients creates an irresistible flavor profile that excites the palate.
• Quick and Simple: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite proteins or vegetables to make this recipe truly your own.
• Nutrient-Rich: Packed with vitamins from fresh ingredients like pineapple and bell peppers, it’s a healthy addition to any meal.

Ingredients for pineapple rice

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Jasmine Rice: This aromatic rice variety cooks fluffy and pairs perfectly with the tropical flavors of the dish.
• Fresh Pineapple: Use ripe pineapple for maximum sweetness; canned may work in a pinch but lacks freshness.
• Bell Peppers: Choose red and yellow varieties for their sweetness and vibrant colors that enhance presentation.
• Green Onions: Chopped green onions add a mild onion flavor and fresh crunch; use both green tops and white bulbs.
• Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to control salt levels without sacrificing flavor depth.

For the Sauce:

• Sesame Oil: A small amount adds rich flavor; use it sparingly as it can be strong if overdone.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make pineapple rice

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Cook the Rice

Start by rinsing one cup of jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice with two cups of water. Bring it to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover with a lid, and simmer for about 15 minutes until tender.

Step 2: Prepare Vegetables

While the rice cooks, chop one cup of fresh pineapple into small chunks. Dice half of each red and yellow bell pepper into bite-sized pieces. Slice three green onions thinly.

Step 3: Sauté Ingredients

In a large skillet over medium heat, add one tablespoon of sesame oil. Once hot, toss in the diced bell peppers and sauté them for about three minutes until slightly tender. Add in the chopped pineapple and cook for another two minutes until heated through.

Step 4: Mix in Rice

Once the vegetables are ready, fluff the cooked jasmine rice with a fork before adding it directly into the skillet. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.

Step 5: Add Sauce

Pour in two tablespoons of low-sodium soy sauce while stirring continuously for about one minute until everything is well coated in flavor.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and stir in the chopped green onions. Transfer to plates or bowls for serving—enjoy your flavorful tropical creation!

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

• Select Quality Ingredients: Fresh produce makes all the difference in flavor; choose ripe pineapples and crisp vegetables.
• Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or fresh chili peppers during cooking.
• Make-ahead Option: You can prepare this dish ahead of time; store it covered in the fridge up to three days before serving.

Mistakes to avoid

• Overcooking the Rice: One of the most common mistakes when making pineapple rice is overcooking the rice. Overcooked rice becomes mushy and loses its distinct texture. To avoid this, use the right amount of water and follow the cooking time on the rice package. Remember that rice continues to cook slightly after being removed from heat. Allow it to rest covered for a few minutes to achieve the perfect fluffiness.
• Choosing the Wrong Pineapple: Selecting an unripe or overly ripe pineapple can ruin your dish. An unripe pineapple will lack sweetness, while an overly ripe one may taste fermented. Choose a pineapple that feels heavy for its size, has a sweet aroma at the base, and displays a golden hue at the bottom. Freshness is key to elevating your pineapple rice’s flavor.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Many people forget to season their pineapple rice adequately, which can result in bland flavors. While pineapple adds natural sweetness, incorporating soy sauce, garlic, and ginger enhances the overall taste. Don’t hesitate to adjust seasonings as you go along; tasting as you cook helps ensure a well-balanced dish.
• Skipping Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions elevate your pineapple rice by adding freshness and color. Skipping these ingredients can lead to a one-dimensional dish. Chop fresh herbs finely and sprinkle them on top just before serving for a burst of flavor that complements the sweetness of the pineapple beautifully.
• Not Using Enough Vegetables: A common oversight is not incorporating enough vegetables into your pineapple rice recipe. Adding bell peppers, peas, or carrots not only improves nutrition but also enhances texture and flavor. Aim for a colorful mix to make your dish visually appealing while boosting its health benefits.

Serving Suggestions

This pineapple rice is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

• Grilled Chicken – The sweetness of the pineapple rice complements the savory flavors of grilled chicken, creating a balanced meal.
• Shrimp Stir-Fry – Combine your pineapple rice with a fresh shrimp stir-fry for a delightful seafood experience.
• Vegetable Curry – This dish serves as a perfect base for a spicy vegetable curry, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

FAQs

What are the health benefits of pineapple rice?

Pineapple rice not only delights your taste buds but also offers several health benefits. Pineapples are rich in vitamin C, which boosts your immune system and promotes healthy skin. Additionally, they contain bromelain, an enzyme that aids digestion and reduces inflammation. When you make this dish with whole grain rice, you also increase its fiber content, helping to maintain digestive health. The combination of sweet and savory elements in pineapple rice can make it an appealing choice for those seeking nutritious meals without sacrificing flavor.

Can I make pineapple rice in advance?

Absolutely! Pineapple rice is a fantastic dish to prepare ahead of time. You can cook the rice and mix in the pineapple and other ingredients, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply microwave it until warm or sauté it on the stove for best results. Preparing this dish in advance can save you time during busy weeknights while allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

What variations can I try with my pineapple rice?

Exploring variations of pineapple rice can add excitement to your meals. Consider adding proteins like diced tofu or cooked beef for a heartier option. You might also mix in different vegetables such as bell peppers, peas, or carrots to enhance nutritional value and color. For a kick of heat, toss in some chopped chili peppers or a splash of hot sauce. These variations allow you to customize pineapple rice to suit your personal preferences or dietary needs.

Is pineapple rice suitable for meal prep?

Yes, pineapple rice is an excellent candidate for meal prep! Its flavors develop well when stored, making it even more delicious after sitting for a day or two. You can portion it into individual containers for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. Pair it with various proteins or veggies at each meal to keep things interesting while enjoying this flavorful dish multiple times.

Conclusion for pineapple rice

Pineapple rice is not only a delicious dish but also highly versatile and easy to prepare. With its delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors, it makes an ideal accompaniment to various main courses like grilled chicken or shrimp stir-fry. You can enjoy numerous health benefits from this dish due to its nutritious ingredients like pineapples and whole grain rice. Whether you’re preparing it ahead of time or experimenting with creative variations, you will find that pineapple rice brings joy and satisfaction to your meals. Embrace this tasty dish as part of your culinary repertoire today!

Print

Pineapple Rice

---

• Author: Mery Mack
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Pineapple rice is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings the essence of the tropics to your table. This easy-to-make recipe features fluffy jasmine rice tossed with succulent chunks of fresh pineapple, colorful bell peppers, and aromatic green onions. The combination of sweet and savory notes creates an irresistible flavor profile, making it a perfect side dish for grilled meats or a refreshing vegetarian option. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up this delightful meal in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or enjoying a weeknight dinner, pineapple rice adds a burst of color and taste that will leave your guests reminiscing about sun-soaked beach vacations.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup jasmine rice
• 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
• 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 yellow bell pepper, diced
• 3 green onions, chopped
• 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil

---

Instructions

1. Rinse jasmine rice under cold water until clear. In a medium saucepan, combine rice with 2 cups of water. Bring to boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
2. While rice cooks, chop fresh pineapple and dice bell peppers. Slice green onions.
3. In a large skillet over medium heat, heat sesame oil and sauté bell peppers for 3 minutes until tender. Add pineapple and cook for another 2 minutes.
4. Fluff cooked rice with a fork and add it to the skillet with sautéed vegetables; stir to combine.
5. Pour in soy sauce while stirring for about one minute until well-coated.
6. Remove from heat and mix in green onions before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Tropical

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 43g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: - Fresh produce significantly enhances flavor; use ripe pineapple. - For added protein, consider mixing in cooked shrimp or chicken. - Adjust spice levels by adding red pepper flakes if desired.