Tomato Basil Rice With Fresh Tomatoes

This quick and simple recipe goes perfectly with all kinds of proteins and is jam-packed with flavor!

What is Tomato Rice?

Tomato rice is one of those recipe staples that stands on its own for a meatless meal or as a vegetarian entrée but we most often enjoy it as a side dish.

A simple combination of onions and white rice is cooked in chicken broth with fresh tomatoes of course! Once tender fresh basil and a sprinkle of parm are added before serving.

Ingredients/Variations

RICE White rice is used in this recipe, but brown rice, jasmine or basmati will work too. The cooking times might have to be slightly adjusted depending on what type you use!

BROTH Chicken broth is used to cook the rice. Use beef broth or vegetable broth if that’s what you have on hand!

TOMATO Fresh diced tomato is cooked in with the rice so flavors can mix. Any type of tomato will work great!

Optional: For some extra zip and zest, add 1 tablespoon tomato paste along with the broth.

How to Make Tomato Rice

Super easy, this dish comes together in no time!

Saute onion in oil and add rice, cook until golden brown.
Add broth, tomatoes, garlic, and seasonings. Cover and bring to a boil.
Remove from heat and let set about 5 minutes. Add cheese & basil and more fresh tomatoes.

Garnish and serve with grilled steak fajitas or fish tacos. Don’t forget the easy strawberry margaritas!

Tips for Perfect Tomato Rice

Instant rice seems like the easiest way to make tomato rice, but because it is dehydrated, the kernels will not be as firm. Using uncooked rice might take a bit more time, but it’s less expensive and will stay firmer, plus it tastes way better.
Rinse uncooked rice, mostly to remove any dirt or debris that might be in the bag, just like with beans. Some cooks think rinsing rice removes starch that keeps it from getting too starchy, but for tomato basil rice and these kinds of recipes, the starch is a good thing for keeping it creamy!
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 4 days. To reheat, pop in the microwave until heated through!

Delicious Rice Dishes

Easy Mushroom Rice – ready in 15 minutes
Cilantro Lime Rice – great with tacos
Garlic Butter Rice – full of flavor
Spanish Rice – a one-pot dish
Cilantro Tomato Rice – a family favorite
Seasoned Rice – so versatile

Did you make this Tomato Basil Rice? Be sure to leave a rating and a comment below!

Different Cooking Methods

Rice is one of the easiest things to cook in an Instant Pot, Slow Cooker, or on the stovetop. This recipe can be prepared in any of these ways! Just refer to your manual for instructions for individual appliances.