RICE PILAF WITH TOMATOES AND GREEN ONIONS

 

2 Boxes (6.09-oz each) Near East Rice Pilaf
2 tbsp butter
2 cups sliced green onions (both the white & green)
3 1/2 cups water
3/4 tsp dried thyme
1 1/2 cups diced tomatoes
Chopped fresh parsley for garnish, if desired

Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium-low heat. Add the chopped green onion and cook, stirring frequently, for 3 to 5 minutes or until tender. Remove onion to a bowl and set aside.

Using the same saucepan, add the water and bring to a boil. Stir in the rice and seasonings from the boxes. Cover, reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes. Stir in the dried thyme, replace lid and simmer for another 10 minutes or until the rice is done. Remove from the heat but let stand with lid on for 5 minutes. Stir in the cooked green onions and the tomatoes. Remove from pan to a serving bowl or individual plates and sprinkle with fresh parsley, if desired.

 This recipe is quick and easy because it starts with two boxes of this rice pilaf. It comes in different flavors. Choose to suit your taste.