By Akshara
August 26, 2026
Transform leftover cooked rice into a fragrant side dish in under five minutes with this simple herb rice recipe. Tossing cold grains with garlic butter and a generous handful of fresh herbs creates a light and aromatic accompaniment for roasted vegetables or grilled mains. Using a hot pan ensures the rice fries slightly rather than steaming, keeping the grains separate and slightly chewy. This rapid technique proves that flavourful meals do not require hours in the kitchen.
2 cups cooked basmati rice, chilled  2 tablespoons butter  3 cloves garlic, finely minced  1/4 cup mixed fresh herbs, finely chopped  1/2 teaspoon chilli flakes  Salt and black pepper to taste
Melt the butter in a wide frying pan over medium heat and sauté the minced garlic for thirty seconds until fragrant but not browned.
Add the chilled basmati rice, breaking up any clumps with a spatula, and toss thoroughly to coat the grains in the garlic butter.
Stir in the freshly chopped herbs, chilli flakes, salt, and black pepper, cooking for two minutes until the rice is heated through completely.
Remove from the heat and serve immediately as a fragrant base for your favourite curry or protein.