A delightful twist on the classic rice pilaf, enhanced with savory flavors and a creamy finish.
Melt the butter in a 3-quart saucepan over medium heat.
Using unsalted butter allows you to control the salt level in the dish.
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan and sauté until the onion becomes translucent.
Stir frequently to prevent the garlic from burning, which can make it taste bitter.
Stir in the rice and cook, stirring occasionally, until the rice is lightly toasted and opaque.
Toasting the rice enhances its nutty flavor and prevents it from becoming mushy.
Pour in the chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer until the rice is tender.
Avoid lifting the lid too often to ensure the rice cooks evenly.
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt to taste.
Adding the cheese at the end ensures it melts smoothly into the dish.
Serve the rice pilaf warm, garnished with additional Parmesan if desired.
For a touch of freshness, sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.