Garlic Basil Tomato Fried Rice (Printable)
Aromatic fried rice featuring fresh garlic, basil, tomatoes, and Parmesan in a quick 30-minute fusion dish.
# What You’ll Need:
→ Rice Base
01 - 3 cups cooked jasmine or basmati rice, preferably chilled (day-old rice works best)
→ Vegetables & Aromatics
02 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
03 - 4 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
05 - 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
06 - 1 red bell pepper, diced
07 - 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
→ Herbs & Cheese
08 - 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
09 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
→ Seasoning
10 - 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
11 - 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
12 - 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional for umami depth)
# How-To Steps:
01 - Warm olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat until shimmering.
02 - Add minced garlic and diced onion to the hot oil. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant and translucent.
03 - Stir in the diced red bell pepper and continue cooking for 2 minutes until slightly softened but still crisp.
04 - Add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften and release their natural juices.
05 - Increase heat to medium-high. Add the chilled rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps with your spatula. Toss thoroughly to combine with the vegetables.
06 - Sprinkle with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Drizzle with soy sauce for added umami, if desired.
07 - Stir in the chopped basil and half of the grated Parmesan. Toss everything together for 2–3 minutes until well mixed and heated through.
08 - Remove from heat immediately. Plate the fried rice and top with remaining Parmesan and fresh basil leaves. Serve while hot.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- The way the tomatoes burst and create their own sauce as they hit the hot pan
- That perfect fusion of Italian flavors with the satisfying texture of fried rice
02 -
- Using freshly cooked rice will result in gummy, clumpy fried rice, so plan ahead or cook your rice the day before
- Do not overcrowd your pan or the rice will steam instead of fry
03 -
- Have all your ingredients prepped and ready before you start cooking, because fried rice comes together quickly
- Use your largest skillet or wok to give the rice room to get properly crispy