Pancetta-Topped Tomato and Basil Rice from the Harvest

A flavorful dish combines the rich, salty crunch of pancetta with fresh tomatoes and fragrant basil, creating a comforting bowl of rice that’s perfect for any meal. It’s easy to make and full of vibrant, harvest-inspired flavors.

Ingredients 0/8

¼ pound pancetta bacon, diced 1 small onion, diced 1 zucchini, diced 1 (14.5 ounce) can no salt-added diced tomatoes, drained, juice reserved Water, as needed 1 (5.5 ounce) package Knorr® Rice Sides™ - Rice Pilaf 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil 2 tablespoons grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese

Why This Recipe Works

This dish combines the rich, salty flavor of pancetta with fresh, vibrant tomatoes and fragrant basil. It’s a comforting meal that feels both hearty and light. The mix of textures and flavors makes it a crowd-pleaser any time of year.

Helpful Kitchen Tips

- Cook the pancetta slowly to render out the fat and get it nice and crispy.
- Use fresh basil for the best aroma and flavor, adding it at the end to keep it bright.
- Rinse the rice before cooking to remove excess starch and help achieve a fluffy texture.

Step 1

Gently heat a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Toss in the pancetta and onion, cooking and stirring often until the pancetta starts to release its fat and the onions turn golden, about 4 minutes. Add the zucchini and cook for another 3 minutes until it softens a bit. Then, stir in the drained tomatoes and let everything heat through for about a minute. Once done, scoop this mixture into a bowl and set aside.

Step 2

Measure out the reserved tomato juice, and add water to it until you have 2 cups of liquid. Pour this back into the same skillet and bring it to a boil over high heat. Stir in the rice pilaf, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer until the rice is tender, around 6 minutes.

Step 3

Finally, return the pancetta, zucchini, onion, and tomato mixture to the skillet with the rice. Give it a good stir and warm everything together for a minute or two. Finish by sprinkling fresh basil and Parmesan cheese over the top before serving.

Best Foods To Serve With This

Serve this rice alongside a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a drizzle of olive oil on top can add extra richness. It also pairs well with grilled chicken or fish for added protein.

How To Save Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to keep the rice moist. Avoid freezing as the texture may change.

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By Lucas Bennett

Food Writer

Lucas creates approachable recipes that balance flavor, simplicity, and reliability.