Every product is independently reviewed and selected by our editors. If you buy something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.
Sunday dinners are special, and what better way to celebrate the end of the week than with a hearty, comforting meal?
Rice, being a versatile and beloved ingredient, can be the centerpiece of your Sunday feast.
Whether you’re cooking for the family, hosting friends, or simply enjoying a quiet meal, rice dishes can suit every mood and flavor.
From savory to sweet, these 30+ Sunday rice recipes will transform your table into a delicious experience.
You’ll discover everything from creamy risottos to zesty lemon rice, hearty pilafs, and comforting rice casseroles.
With these recipes, you’ll never run out of ideas for your Sunday spread, ensuring your weekend is filled with flavor and joy.
30+ Flavorful Sunday Rice Recipes to Elevate Your Weekend Meals
Rice is a wonderful ingredient that can be transformed into countless delicious dishes, making it the perfect addition to any Sunday meal.
These 30+ Sunday rice recipes offer a range of flavors, from fresh and light options to rich and hearty dishes that will please every palate.
Whether you’re in the mood for something light and herby or indulgent and creamy, there’s a rice recipe for every occasion.
So, next Sunday, let your imagination run wild in the kitchen, and create a meal that’s as flavorful as it is memorable.
With these recipes, you’ll be ready to enjoy the best of what Sundays have to offer, one grain of rice at a time.
Creamy Coconut Sunday Rice
Transform your Sunday meal into a tropical feast with this creamy coconut rice. It blends aromatic basmati rice with the rich flavors of coconut milk and a hint of sweetness, making it the perfect base for a variety of main dishes.
Ingredients
- 1 cup basmati rice
- 1 ½ cups coconut milk
- ½ cup water
- 1 tbsp sugar (optional)
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tbsp shredded coconut (for garnish)
- Fresh cilantro (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Rinse the rice thoroughly until the water runs clear, then drain.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the rice, coconut milk, water, sugar, and salt. Stir well.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with shredded coconut and cilantro if desired, and serve warm.
This creamy coconut rice brings a delightful richness to your Sunday table, complementing savory or spicy dishes beautifully. Whether paired with a tangy curry or grilled seafood, it’s an easy way to elevate your meal into something special and memorable.
Herbed Lemon Garlic Rice
This light and zesty herbed rice is perfect for a refreshing Sunday lunch. Flavored with lemon, garlic, and fresh herbs, it’s a simple yet flavorful side dish that brightens any meal.
Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat a medium saucepan over medium heat and add the minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add the rice to the saucepan and toast lightly for 2 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Pour in the broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest, then season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil.
- Lower the heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice absorbs all the liquid.
- Turn off the heat and let the rice sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork, then stir in the fresh parsley and dill. Serve immediately.
This herbed lemon garlic rice is refreshing and versatile, pairing well with roasted chicken, grilled fish, or a medley of steamed vegetables. Its citrusy and herby profile adds a touch of elegance to any Sunday meal, leaving your guests impressed and satisfied.
Spicy Tomato Sunday Rice
Elevate your Sunday dining experience with this vibrant and flavorful spicy tomato rice. With bold spices and the tangy kick of tomatoes, it’s a hearty dish that stands out as a main or side option.
Ingredients
- 1 cup jasmine rice
- 1 ½ cups water
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute until aromatic.
- Add the diced tomatoes, including the juice, and cook for 2-3 minutes to slightly reduce.
- Pour in the water and bring the mixture to a boil. Add the rice, stirring to combine, and season with salt.
- Lower the heat, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
- Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
This spicy tomato rice is a burst of bold flavors that will energize your Sunday meal. Whether served alongside grilled meats or enjoyed on its own with a dollop of yogurt, it’s a comforting and delicious choice that brings warmth to the table.
Cilantro Lime Sunday Rice
This fresh and fragrant cilantro lime rice is the ideal companion for any Mexican-inspired meal. With its bright citrus flavor and aromatic herbs, it complements grilled meats, tacos, and even vegetarian dishes.
Ingredients
- 1 cup white rice
- 2 cups water
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Juice and zest of 1 lime
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the rice and toast for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the water and bring it to a boil. Lower the heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Remove from heat and let the rice sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
- Fluff with a fork, then stir in the lime juice, lime zest, and chopped cilantro. Adjust salt to taste.
The cilantro lime rice is a light and zesty dish that adds a burst of freshness to your Sunday meal. Its combination of tangy lime and fragrant cilantro offers the perfect balance to spicy or rich dishes, making it a versatile and refreshing side.
Saffron Infused Sunday Rice
Elevate your Sunday dining with this luxurious saffron-infused rice. The delicate, floral notes of saffron give the rice a beautiful golden hue and a unique flavor, making it an ideal accompaniment to a variety of dishes.
Ingredients
- 1 cup basmati rice
- 2 cups water
- 1 pinch saffron threads
- 1 tbsp ghee (clarified butter)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp slivered almonds (optional)
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Soak the saffron threads in 2 tablespoons of warm water for 10 minutes.
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then drain.
- Heat the ghee in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and golden, about 5 minutes.
- Add the saffron-infused water, rice, and salt to the pan, followed by the remaining water. Bring to a boil.
- Lower the heat, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and the water is absorbed.
- Let the rice sit covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork. Garnish with slivered almonds if desired and serve.
Saffron-infused rice brings an air of sophistication to any meal. The aromatic flavor and golden color make it the perfect side dish for rich curries, roasted meats, or even a festive gathering. It’s a simple yet elegant way to transform your Sunday table.
Vegetable Pilaf Sunday Rice
For a hearty and flavorful rice dish, this vegetable pilaf is packed with colorful vegetables and seasoned to perfection. It’s a wholesome and satisfying dish that pairs wonderfully with any Sunday meal, whether vegetarian or not.
Ingredients
- 1 cup basmati or jasmine rice
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 medium carrot, diced
- ½ cup peas
- 1 small bell pepper, diced
- 1 small zucchini, diced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1 tsp ground turmeric
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the diced carrot, bell pepper, zucchini, and peas to the pan. Sauté for 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
- Stir in the rice, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Toast the rice and vegetables together for 2 minutes.
- Pour in the vegetable broth, bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
- Let the rice sit, covered, for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.
This vegetable pilaf rice is a nutritious and flavorful dish that brings a variety of textures and tastes to your Sunday meal. With the richness of cumin and turmeric paired with fresh, seasonal vegetables, it’s a wonderful complement to both vegetarian and meat-based main courses.
Sweet Cinnamon Sunday Rice
This sweet cinnamon rice brings a comforting, aromatic touch to your Sunday meal. With a hint of cinnamon and vanilla, it’s perfect as a dessert or a side dish to balance spiced or savory mains.
Ingredients
- 1 cup white rice
- 1 ½ cups milk (or almond milk)
- ½ cup water
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
- Chopped nuts or dried fruits for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the rice, milk, water, sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Simmer for 15-18 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
- Remove from heat and let the rice sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
- Fluff with a fork and garnish with chopped nuts or dried fruits if desired. Serve warm.
The sweet cinnamon rice is a soothing and indulgent dish that’s perfect for a cozy Sunday brunch or as a side to roasted meats. Its sweet, spiced profile makes it a versatile dish that can double as a dessert, offering warmth and comfort to any meal.
Mushroom and Thyme Sunday Rice
This savory mushroom and thyme rice brings an earthy depth to your Sunday table, with tender mushrooms and the fragrant touch of thyme. It’s a perfect side dish for roasted meats or a vegetarian delight on its own.
Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 1 ½ cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or ½ tsp dried thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes.
- Stir in the garlic and sliced mushrooms. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown.
- Add the rice and thyme, stirring to combine, and cook for 2 minutes to toast the rice.
- Pour in the vegetable broth, season with salt and pepper, and bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Let the rice sit covered for 5 minutes, fluff with a fork, and serve warm.
This mushroom and thyme rice adds rich flavor to your Sunday meal. The earthy mushrooms and aromatic thyme create a sophisticated side dish that’s ideal for pairing with roasted chicken, beef, or grilled vegetables. It’s simple yet packed with savory goodness.
Peanut and Lime Sunday Rice
For a tangy and nutty twist, this peanut and lime rice is a vibrant and satisfying side dish that brings an exciting flavor profile to your Sunday meal. Perfect for pairing with grilled meats or as a stand-alone vegetarian option.
Ingredients
- 1 cup jasmine rice
- 2 cups water
- ½ cup roasted peanuts, chopped
- 1 tbsp peanut butter (optional, for creaminess)
- Juice and zest of 1 lime
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp fresh cilantro, chopped (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then drain.
- In a saucepan, combine the rice and water and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
- In a small bowl, mix the lime juice, lime zest, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Stir in the peanut butter if using.
- Once the rice is cooked, fluff with a fork and stir in the peanut-lime mixture. Add the chopped peanuts and mix gently to combine.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired and serve warm.
This peanut and lime rice is a delightful combination of tangy lime and nutty peanuts that adds excitement to any Sunday meal. The crunchy peanuts and aromatic lime create a flavorful contrast, making it an excellent pairing for Asian-inspired dishes or grilled meats. It’s a refreshing and satisfying choice for your Sunday table.
Turmeric and Ginger Sunday Rice
This turmeric and ginger rice brings vibrant color and a warm, aromatic flavor to your Sunday table. Infused with the earthy richness of turmeric and the zesty kick of ginger, it’s a perfect side dish for curries, grilled meats, or roasted vegetables.
Ingredients
- 1 cup basmati rice
- 2 cups water
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp ground turmeric
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft and golden.
- Stir in the grated ginger and ground turmeric, and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the rice, stirring to coat with the spices, and cook for 2 minutes.
- Pour in the water, season with salt, and bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 15-18 minutes until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed.
- Let the rice sit, covered, for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired, and serve warm.
This turmeric and ginger rice is not only visually stunning but also full of vibrant, aromatic flavors. It’s a fantastic complement to any curry or grilled dish, bringing a rich, warm contrast to a variety of meals. Perfect for a Sunday family gathering or a dinner that needs a touch of spice and color.
Curry Spiced Sunday Rice
For those who enjoy a flavorful kick in their rice, this curry-spiced rice combines the warmth of curry powder with the subtle sweetness of cinnamon and raisins. It’s a comforting, flavorful side dish perfect for a variety of main courses.
Ingredients
- 1 cup basmati rice
- 2 cups water
- 1 tbsp curry powder
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ¼ cup raisins
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes until soft.
- Stir in the curry powder and cinnamon, cooking for another minute to release the spices’ aroma.
- Add the rice and raisins, stirring to coat the rice with the spices. Cook for 2 minutes.
- Pour in the water and bring to a boil. Lower the heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
- Let the rice sit, covered, for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork and serve warm.
Curry-spiced rice brings a perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors to your Sunday meal. The subtle heat from the curry powder and the sweetness from the raisins create an exciting contrast, making it an ideal accompaniment to roasted meats, curries, or a vegetarian dish.
Rosemary and Lemon Sunday Rice
This fragrant rosemary and lemon rice is a perfect way to add a zesty, herby touch to your Sunday meal. With the fresh flavor of lemon and the earthy notes of rosemary, it’s an ideal side dish for roasted chicken, lamb, or even as a base for vegetable bowls.
Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 2 cups water
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped (or ½ tsp dried rosemary)
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped rosemary and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the rice, stirring for 2 minutes to toast it slightly.
- Pour in the water, lemon juice, lemon zest, and salt. Bring to a boil.
- Lower the heat, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the water is absorbed.
- Let the rice sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork, and serve warm.
Rosemary and lemon rice is a light yet flavorful dish that pairs beautifully with roasted meats or grilled seafood. Its refreshing lemon notes combined with the aromatic rosemary create a perfect balance, making it a standout addition to your Sunday dinner or brunch table.
Caramelized Onion and Garlic Sunday Rice
This caramelized onion and garlic rice brings rich, savory flavors that elevate any Sunday meal. The sweetness of the caramelized onions, combined with the aromatic garlic, makes this rice a fantastic side dish for grilled meats, stews, or vegetarian dishes.
Ingredients
- 1 cup basmati rice
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp fresh thyme (or ½ tsp dried thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, for 15-20 minutes until the onions are golden brown and caramelized.
- Add the minced garlic and thyme, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in the rice and cook for 2 minutes, allowing the rice to toast slightly and absorb the flavors of the onions and garlic.
- Pour in the vegetable broth, season with salt and pepper, and bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Let the rice sit covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork and serve warm.
The caramelized onions and garlic add deep, savory flavor to the rice, making it a perfect complement to hearty stews, roasted meats, or vegetable dishes. It’s a wonderful choice for a Sunday meal when you’re looking to impress with rich, comforting flavors.
Tomato and Basil Sunday Rice
This simple yet flavorful tomato and basil rice is a vibrant addition to any Sunday meal. The fresh basil and tangy tomato flavor create a bright, Mediterranean-inspired dish that pairs beautifully with grilled vegetables, chicken, or fish.
Ingredients
- 1 cup jasmine rice
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 large tomato, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in the chopped tomato and cook for 4-5 minutes until softened and slightly caramelized.
- Add the rice, stirring for 2 minutes to coat it with the tomato and garlic.
- Pour in the vegetable broth, season with salt and pepper, and bring to a boil.
- Lower the heat, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
- Stir in the fresh basil just before serving and fluff the rice with a fork.
Tomato and basil rice offers a refreshing and light flavor profile that works wonderfully with Mediterranean-inspired meals. The combination of ripe tomato and fragrant basil creates a flavorful and aromatic dish that’s perfect for your Sunday dinner or as a side to your favorite main course.
Lemon Herb Sunday Rice
This zesty lemon herb rice brings a bright, aromatic touch to your Sunday meal. With the freshness of lemon and the depth of herbs, it’s an ideal side dish for seafood, chicken, or any light meal.
Ingredients
- 1 cup basmati rice
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp fresh dill, chopped
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the rice and toast it lightly for 2 minutes.
- Pour in the water or vegetable broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Season with salt and pepper, and bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
- Let the rice sit, covered, for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
- Stir in the chopped fresh parsley and dill just before serving, and serve warm.
The lemon herb rice is a light and refreshing dish that pairs perfectly with seafood, chicken, or grilled vegetables. The bright lemon and fresh herbs make it a wonderful side dish to round out your Sunday meal with a burst of flavor and freshness.
Note: More recipes are coming soon!
