Garlic rice with olive oil

Garlic rice with olive oil is a simple, aromatic dish featuring sautéed garlic and rich olive oil mixed with fluffy white rice. This versatile recipe can be served as a satisfying side or a main course.

15 Jan 2026
Cook time 15 min
Prep time 5 min

Ingredients:

1 tbsp olive oil
3 garlic cloves
1/2 cup white rice
1.50 cups water
1 dash salt
Garlic rice with olive oil

Garlic rice with olive oil is a simple yet flavorful dish that's perfect as a side or main course. This recipe combines the aromatic flavor of garlic with the subtle richness of olive oil, creating a delicious complement to any meal. With just a few ingredients, you can make a versatile and satisfying dish in no time.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Garlic: Peel and finely mince the garlic cloves.
2. Heat the Oil: In a medium-sized saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat until it becomes slightly shimmering.
3. Sauté the Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the pan. Sauté it for about 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
4. Toast the Rice: Add the white rice into the saucepan with the garlic and olive oil. Stir well to coat the rice grains with the oil and garlic. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the rice becomes slightly translucent.
5. Add Water: Slowly add 1½ cups of water to the saucepan, being cautious of any hot oil splatter. Stir to combine everything.
6. Season: Add a dash of salt to the water and rice mixture. Stir to evenly distribute the salt.
7. Bring to a Boil: Increase the heat to high to bring the mixture to a boil.
8. Simmer: Once it begins to boil, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a lid, and let it simmer gently. Cook for 15-20 minutes or until all the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
9. Fluff and Serve: Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.
10. Enjoy: Serve the garlic-infused rice hot as a side dish or a base for your favorite main course.

Your garlic rice with olive oil is ready to serve! This dish is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor. Whether you pair it with your favorite protein or enjoy it on its own, this garlic-infused rice is sure to become a household favorite.

Garlic rice with olive oil FAQ:

How long does it take to cook garlic rice?

Cooking garlic rice takes about 15-20 minutes after bringing the water to a boil. Additionally, allowing the rice to sit covered for an extra 5 minutes after cooking ensures it is fluffy.

What type of rice should I use for this recipe?

This recipe calls for white rice, which cooks quickly and absorbs the garlic and olive oil flavors well. You can use long-grain white rice like Jasmine or Basmati for a similar result.

Can I make this recipe with brown rice instead?

Yes, you can substitute with brown rice, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time. Brown rice typically takes 40-45 minutes to cook and will require more water (about 2 cups for 1/2 cup of rice).

How should I store leftover garlic rice?

Store leftover garlic rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply microwave it with a splash of water to prevent it from drying out.

Can I add other ingredients to this garlic rice?

Yes, you can add various ingredients such as sautéed vegetables, herbs, or cooked proteins to enhance the dish. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if adding ingredients that require longer cooking.

Cooking Tips:

- Ensure that you do not burn the garlic by cooking it on low heat. Burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste to the rice.

- You can add additional herbs like parsley or cilantro for extra flavor and color.

- For a healthier alternative, you can use brown rice instead of white rice. Just note that brown rice requires a longer cooking time and may need more water.

- Feel free to add vegetables or proteins, such as peas or chicken, to make it a more complete meal.

- Let the cooked rice sit for a few minutes before fluffing it with a fork. This helps to achieve a better texture.

Nutrition Facts

1 Servings
Calories 350kcal
Protein 7g
Carbohydrates 80g
Fiber 1.45g
Sugar 0.20g
Fat 14g

More recipes

Parmesan and chive mash

A creamy Parmesan and chive mash perfect for any meal.

21 Dec 2025

Lemon delicious ice-cream

Creamy lemon ice-cream made with fresh lemon juice and zest.

21 Nov 2025

Sweet potato and herb crumble

A comforting sweet potato and herb crumble, perfect for any occasion.

27 Nov 2025

Rosemary and garlic roast potatoes

Crispy rosemary and garlic roast potatoes, perfect for any occasion.

07 Jan 2026

Wombok with bacon & green beans

Quick stir-fry of wombok, bacon, and green beans with a spicy kick.

06 Jan 2026

Balsamic-glazed carrots

Sweet and tangy balsamic-glazed carrots, perfect as a side dish.

21 Jan 2026

Chilli and olive polenta

Creamy polenta mixed with spicy chili and salty olives.

19 Nov 2025

Orange and creme fraiche cake

A moist orange cake topped with creamy crème fraîche icing.

05 Feb 2026

Posts