Low Sodium Saffron Rice

Infused with the golden hues and delicate aroma of saffron, this Low Sodium Saffron Rice is a flavorful, heart-healthy twist on a classic dish. Featuring fluffy Basmati rice gently simmered with turmeric, garlic, and onions, this recipe achieves bold, vibrant flavors without the need for added salt. The saffron threads, soaked to release their full essence, lend a luxurious touch, while a dash of lemon zest and fresh parsley add brightness and freshness. Perfect as a low-sodium side dish for your favorite proteins or as a light standalone meal, this easy-to-make rice is as nutritious as it is stunning on the plate. Plus, it’s ready in just 35 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Embrace the elegance of this aromatic, low-sodium recipe and impress your dinner table with its rich, golden beauty!

Nutriscore Rating: 72/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1.5 cups Basmati rice
• 3 cups Water
• 0.5 teaspoons Saffron threads
• 2 tablespoons Olive oil
• 1 medium Onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced
• 0.5 teaspoons Ground turmeric
• 0.25 teaspoons Black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons Fresh parsley, chopped

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the Basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. This will prevent the rice from becoming sticky during cooking. Drain well.

Step 2

In a small bowl, soak the saffron threads in 2 tablespoons of warm water. Let it sit to bloom the flavor.

Step 3

Heat the olive oil in a medium-sized pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 4-5 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent.

Step 4

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 5

Add the rinsed and drained Basmati rice to the pot, stirring well to coat the rice in the oil mixture.

Step 6

Pour in the 3 cups of water, and stir in the ground turmeric and the prepared saffron mixture, including its soaking water.

Step 7

Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil.

Step 8

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

Step 9

Remove the pot from heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes. This resting time allows the rice to finish cooking with steam.

Step 10

Fluff the rice gently with a fork. Stir in the black pepper, lemon zest, and fresh parsley.

Step 11

Serve warm as a side dish or a light main course. Enjoy your delicious and aromatic low sodium saffron rice.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1175.9g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	679.3

Total Fat 29.4g	0%
Saturated Fat 4.7g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.7g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 35.9mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 90.6g	0%
Dietary Fiber 4.3g	0%
Total Sugars 5.1g
Protein 12.7g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 137.5mg	0%
Iron 6.5mg	0%
Potassium 406.9mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 39.0%

Protein: 7.5%

Carbs: 53.5%