Lime Rice Pilaf

While eating Rice-A-Roni with dinner recently, Kristen observed that no matter what flavor is listed on the front of the box, it always just tastes like Rice-A-Roni. Very true. Plus it is no doubt chock-full of sodium. Surely making seasoned rice from scratch couldn't be that difficult. This simple recipe from Food Network confirmed to us that it isn't.

• 2 tbsp butter
• 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
• 2 cups long grain white rice
• 3 3/4 cups chicken stock
• Juice and zest of 1 lime
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh parsley or cilantro, finely chopped

Melt butter in heavy large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and sauté until tender, about 5 minutes. Add rice and stir to coat. Add chicken stock, lime juice and lime zest. Bring to boil, stirring occasionally. Reduce heat to low, cover and cook until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed, about 15-20 minutes. Remove from heat and let stand covered 5 minutes. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Sprinkle with parsley or cilantro.

The recipe says is makes 4 servings, but one batch has lasted two dinners so far and we still have some leftovers. But most importantly, it doesn't taste like Rice-A-Roni.