Mediterranean Diet Saffron Rice

Elevate your dining experience with this vibrant Mediterranean Diet Saffron Rice recipe, a wholesome and aromatic side dish that perfectly complements a range of meals. Infused with the golden hue and delicate floral aroma of saffron threads, this dish combines fluffy basmati rice with the richness of sautéed onions, garlic, and a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil for a Mediterranean touch. Fresh parsley, zesty lemon, and a hint of black pepper add a refreshing brightness, making it a flavorful and health-conscious choice. Ready in under 45 minutes, this gluten-free dish is cooked in your choice of chicken or vegetable broth for added depth, making it both versatile and satisfying. Whether served alongside grilled fish, roasted vegetables, or as part of a mezze platter, this saffron rice is sure to impress with its vibrant flavors and nutrient-packed simplicity.

Nutriscore Rating: 65/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1.5 cups Basmati rice
• 3 cups Chicken or vegetable broth
• 0.5 teaspoon Saffron threads
• 2 tablespoons Extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 medium Yellow onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 0.25 cup Fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 whole Lemon, zest and juice
• 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper, freshly ground

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps to remove excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming sticky. Set aside to drain.

Step 2

In a small bowl, combine the saffron threads with 2 tablespoons of warm water and let soak. This will release the color and flavor of the saffron.

Step 3

In a medium pot, heat the extra-virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped yellow onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.

Step 4

Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for another 1 minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.

Step 5

Stir in the drained basmati rice, ensuring each grain is coated in the oil and onion mixture. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the rice is lightly toasted.

Step 6

Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and add the saffron water along with the threads. Stir well and season with salt and black pepper.

Step 7

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid, and let it simmer for 15-17 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.

Step 8

Remove the pot from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. This helps the rice to finish cooking and become fluffy.

Step 9

Add the chopped fresh parsley, lemon zest, and lemon juice to the rice. Fluff the rice gently with a fork to combine all the ingredients, being careful not to mash the grains.

Step 10

Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or lemon juice as desired. Serve warm, and enjoy your Mediterranean Diet Saffron Rice!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1288.5g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	742.2

Total Fat 30.5g	0%
Saturated Fat 4.5g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 4985.4mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 101.4g	0%
Dietary Fiber 7.2g	0%
Total Sugars 8.8g
Protein 19.5g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 255.4mg	0%
Iron 9.5mg	0%
Potassium 1061.6mg	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: 36.2%

Protein: 10.3%

Carbs: 53.5%