Parmesan Herb Brown Rice

I love a new take on the standard brown rice side dish and this is the perfect side to go with almost anything!  Quick, easy and delicious!  The addition of Parmesan cheese gives it that salty bite and the fresh basil will wake up all the flavors with it's lemony freshness.  Enjoy!

Parmesan Herb Brown Rice (adapted from food.com)

1 T. extra virgin olive oil
1 small yellow onion, finely diced
Salt and pepper
3 c. instant brown rice
3 c. water
1 c. parmesan cheese
1/4 c. fresh basil

Heat a small skillet over medium high heat and add the olive oil and onion.  Season with salt and pepper and saute, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes or until the onions are translucent.  

Meanwhile place the rice and water in a large sauce pan and bring to a boil.  Reduce to a simmer, cover and cook for 5 minutes.  Turn off the heat and allow the rice to sit for 5 minutes.  Add the onion, Parmesan cheese and basil and stir to combine.  Serve!

8 servings (190 calories each serving) according to my calculator on loseit.com