Rice is spring’s best-kept secret. It’s humble, affordable, and totally ready for a seasonal glow-up. First, it plays nice with spring produce. Next, it adapts to every flavor—from tropical to herby to creamy. And finally, it works for weeknight meals, dinner parties, and everything in between.
These 20 recipes prove rice isn’t just a side dish—it’s the main event. Let’s dig in!
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Spring Rice Pilaf with Asparagus and Peas
A light and bright bowl of spring goodness with tender asparagus, sweet peas, and fresh herbs.
Perfect for: Meal prep, Easter dinner, or veggie lovers.
Pro Tip: Use vegetable broth for a deeper flavor and a fully vegetarian dish.
Herbed Spring Rice Pilaf
Packed with spring vegetables and garden herbs, this one’s fresh, fragrant, and foolproof.
Perfect for: Potlucks, weeknight sides, or herb enthusiasts.
Pro Tip: Add a squeeze of lemon just before serving to make the herbs pop.
Arroz a la Primavera (Mexican White Rice)
Colorful, comforting, and a little bit festive—this is your new favorite side for taco night.
Perfect for: Mexican dinners, Cinco de Mayo, or picky eaters.
Pro Tip: Add a spoonful of tomato paste for extra depth.
Vegan Fried Rice with Spring Vegetables
Crisp veggies, savory flavor, and totally plant-based. Quick, healthy, and satisfying!
Perfect for: Vegans, meatless Mondays, or stir-fry fans.
Pro Tip: Use leftover rice from the day before—it fries up better.
Spring Jasmine Rice with Peas
Simple and aromatic, this dish balances fragrant jasmine rice with fresh peas and herbs.
Perfect for: Busy weeknights or elegant dinner parties.
Pro Tip: Add mint for an extra refreshing finish.
Arroz à Grega (Brazilian “Greek” Rice)
Sweet raisins and savory veggies create a surprisingly delicious combo in this Brazilian classic.
Perfect for: Adventurous eaters and side-dish lovers.
Pro Tip: Use basmati rice for a lighter texture.
Khao Chae (Thai Cold Jasmine Rice)
Cold, floral jasmine rice served with savory toppings—perfect for hot days or Thai food fans.
Perfect for: Spring feasts, foodies, or cooling off in style.
Pro Tip: Serve with crushed ice and edible flowers for a traditional Thai presentation.
Wild Rice Salad with Spring Vegetables
Nutty wild rice meets crisp spring veggies in this hearty, beautiful salad.
Perfect for: Meal prep, picnic lunches, or Ina Garten superfans.
Pro Tip: Let it chill for 30 minutes before serving—flavors deepen as it sits.
Mango Coconut Rice
Creamy, tropical coconut rice paired with juicy mango—it’s sunshine in a bowl.
Perfect for: Summer parties, grilled proteins, or dessert lovers.
Pro Tip: Toast shredded coconut on top for extra crunch.
Spring Vegetable Brown Rice Casserole
Creamy, cheesy, and packed with greens—this casserole brings springtime comfort.
Perfect for: Family dinners, vegetarians, or one-dish meals.
Pro Tip: Swap in fontina or gruyère for extra cheesy goodness.
Zucchini Risotto
Creamy risotto with fresh zucchini—light, elegant, and totally spring-worthy.
Perfect for: Date night, meatless meals, or garden zucchini overload.
Pro Tip: Stir constantly and use warm broth for the creamiest texture.
Extra Vegetable Fried Rice
Fast, colorful, and veggie-packed, this fried rice is a weekday lifesaver.
Perfect for: Leftover veggies, quick lunches, or picky kids.
Pro Tip: Add a splash of sesame oil at the end for that takeout flavor.
Spring Vegetable & Meyer Lemon Risotto
Zesty Meyer lemon + brown rice + spring veggies = a tangy twist on traditional risotto.
Perfect for: Lemon lovers, special occasions, or brunch.
Pro Tip: Don’t skip the lemon zest—it brightens the entire dish.
Mushroom Risotto with Spring Greens
Earthy mushrooms and tender greens join forces for a rich, cozy risotto.
Perfect for: Dinner parties, wine nights, or mushroom fans.
Pro Tip: Use a mix of mushrooms for the best flavor.
Green Bean Wild Rice Casserole
A springy take on a classic casserole—made with real ingredients and wild rice.
Perfect for: Holiday tables, hearty sides, or nostalgic eaters.
Pro Tip: Add crispy onions or breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping.
Wild Rice Salad with Mint & Preserved Lemon
Cool mint and tangy lemon give this wild rice salad a Mediterranean flair.
Perfect for: Light lunches, healthy sides, or plant-based picnics.
Pro Tip: Preserved lemon adds complexity—don’t substitute with just zest!
Spring Vegetable Risotto with Parmesan
Asparagus, peas, and radishes blend into creamy, cheesy risotto magic.
Perfect for: Impressing guests or spoiling yourself.
Pro Tip: Stir in extra Parm at the end for rich, savory flavor.
Spring Bliss Bowls
Pesto rice, roasted veggies, and creamy dressing make these bowls a spring staple.
Perfect for: Meal prepping, clean eating, or gluten-free diets.
Pro Tip: Mix up the veggies each week to keep it exciting.
One Pot Spring Chicken & Rice
Juicy chicken, fresh veggies, and creamy rice—all cooked in one pan.
Perfect for: Busy families, springtime comfort food, or anyone who hates dishes.
Pro Tip: Add lemon slices on top for extra brightness.
Spring Rice Salad
With avocado, cucumber, herbs, and soft-boiled eggs, this rice salad is as filling as it is fresh.
Perfect for: Brunch spreads, healthy lunches, or meal prep pros.
Pro Tip: Pickled shallots = secret flavor weapon.
Shae Torres
A Scorpio with a restless spirit and a student of International Business at Towson, learning, growing, and finding her way. Dreaming not just of becoming a businesswoman, but of building something meaningful.
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