Here’s a list of all the ingredients for **Harvest Tomato Basil Rice with Pancetta**, formatted with SEO-friendly keywords to help your recipe stand out:
- **Pancetta** (diced, for a smoky, savory flavor)
- **Arborio rice** (or long-grain rice, for a creamy texture)
- **Fresh tomatoes** (diced, for a juicy, harvest-inspired base)
- **Fresh basil leaves** (chopped, for a fragrant, herbaceous touch)
- **Garlic** (minced, for aromatic depth)
- **Yellow onion** (finely chopped, for a sweet, savory base)
- **Olive oil** (extra virgin, for sautéing and richness)
- **Chicken broth** (or vegetable broth, for cooking the rice)
- **Parmesan cheese** (grated, for a nutty, cheesy finish)
- **Salt** (to taste, for seasoning)
- **Black pepper** (freshly ground, for a hint of spice)
- **Red pepper flakes** (optional, for a subtle kick)
- **Butter** (unsalted, for added creaminess)
This **tomato basil rice recipe** is perfect for a comforting, **Italian-inspired dish** that combines the richness of **pancetta** with the freshness of **harvest tomatoes** and **basil**. Enjoy this **easy rice dish** as a side or main course!
Steps
# How to Make Harvest Tomato Basil Rice with Pancetta: A Flavorful Recipe
If you're looking for a comforting, flavorful dish that combines the richness of pancetta with the freshness of tomatoes and basil, this **Harvest Tomato Basil Rice with Pancetta** recipe is perfect for you. This dish is a celebration of seasonal ingredients, making it ideal for a hearty family dinner or a special occasion. Follow these detailed steps to create a dish that’s bursting with flavor and texture.
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## **Ingredients for Tomato Basil Rice with Pancetta**
- 1 cup long-grain rice (or Arborio rice for a creamier texture)
- 4 oz pancetta, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Red pepper flakes for a hint of spice
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## **Step-by-Step Instructions**
### **1. Prepare the Pancetta**
- Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the diced pancetta and cook until it becomes crispy and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the pancetta with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pan for added flavor.
### **2. Sauté the Aromatics**
- In the same skillet, add 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil if needed.
- Sauté the finely chopped onion until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
### **3. Cook the Rice**
- Add the rice to the skillet and stir to coat it in the pancetta fat and olive oil. Toast the rice for 2-3 minutes until it becomes slightly translucent.
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low.
- Cover the skillet and let the rice simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
### **4. Add the Tomatoes and Basil**
- Once the rice is cooked, stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and fresh basil leaves. The residual heat will soften the tomatoes slightly while keeping them vibrant.
- Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes to taste.
### **5. Incorporate the Pancetta and Cheese**
- Fold the crispy pancetta back into the rice mixture, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top and give it a final stir to melt the cheese into the dish.
### **6. Serve and Enjoy**
- Transfer the Harvest Tomato Basil Rice with Pancetta to a serving dish.
- Garnish with additional fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a beautiful presentation.
- Serve warm as a main dish or a side to grilled chicken, fish, or roasted vegetables.
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## **Tips for the Best Tomato Basil Rice**
- Use **fresh basil** for the brightest flavor. Dried basil won’t provide the same aromatic punch.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the pancetta and use a splash of smoked paprika for a similar depth of flavor.
- Add a splash of white wine to the rice while toasting for an extra layer of complexity.
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This **Harvest Tomato Basil Rice with Pancetta** is a versatile, crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for any season. With its combination of savory pancetta, sweet tomatoes, and fragrant basil, it’s a recipe that will quickly become a favorite. Try it today and enjoy the comforting flavors of this easy-to-make dish!