Tropical Pineapple Rice Bowl

Name: Tropical Pineapple Rice Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup jasmine rice; 1 1/2 cups coconut milk; 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1/2 cup green onions, chopped; 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped; Juice of 1 lime; Salt to taste; 1/4 cup toasted coconut flakes (optional)

Highlighted under: Seasonal Flavor Recipes

I love making a Tropical Pineapple Rice Bowl because it transports me straight to a sunny beach with every bite. The sweet and savory blend of fresh pineapple and fluffy rice is simply irresistible. I enjoy preparing this dish as it not only looks vibrant but is also quick to whip up, making it perfect for lunch or a light dinner. Pairing it with some fresh herbs and a hint of lime adds an extra layer of brightness that elevates the entire meal.

Created by

Sandra

Last updated on 2026-01-29T09:56:55.151Z

Creating this Tropical Pineapple Rice Bowl has been a delightful experience for me. The combination of flavors is exhilarating, and I particularly enjoy how the pineapple adds a natural sweetness that pairs traditionally savory components beautifully. Cooking the rice with a splash of coconut milk not only enhances the taste but also gives the dish a creamy texture that everyone loves.

I also discovered that adding a sprinkle of toasted coconut on top elevates the flavor profile even further. It's these little touches that make cooking so rewarding, and I'm excited to share this vibrant dish with friends and family!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Sweet and tangy pineapple harmonizes with savory rice
Vibrant colors that make your plate come alive
Quick to prepare, ideal for busy weeknights

      

Ingredient Spotlight: Pineapple

Fresh pineapple is the star of this Tropical Pineapple Rice Bowl, providing a natural sweetness that balances perfectly with savory elements. Selecting a ripe pineapple is key—look for one that yields slightly to pressure and has a sweet aroma at the base. The juiciness of fresh pineapple not only enhances the flavor but also adds moisture to the dish, ensuring that each bite is refreshing and vibrant.

If fresh pineapple isn't available, you can substitute it with canned pineapple in juice, but be sure to drain it well to avoid excess moisture. Keep in mind that the flavor will be slightly less intense than that of fresh pineapple, so consider adding a splash of lime juice to brighten it up. This swap maintains the essence of the dish while making it accessible year-round.

Perfecting the Rice

The type of rice used in this recipe contributes significantly to its overall texture. Jasmine rice is fragrant and slightly sticky when cooked, which enhances the dish’s appeal. If you're gluten-free or need a substitution, feel free to use quinoa, which also complements the tropical flavors well. To cook quinoa, follow the same liquid ratio as rice but reduce the cooking time to around 12–15 minutes.

Make sure to rinse your jasmine rice under cold water before cooking. This step removes excess starch, preventing the rice from becoming gummy and ensuring a light, fluffy texture. Once the rice is done, fluff it gently with a fork to separate the grains, giving your Tropical Pineapple Rice Bowl a delightful bite.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your delicious Tropical Pineapple Rice Bowl:

Ingredients

1 cup jasmine rice
1 1/2 cups coconut milk
1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1/2 cup green onions, chopped
1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
Juice of 1 lime
Salt to taste
1/4 cup toasted coconut flakes (optional)

Once you have all the ingredients ready, you can start preparing your Tropical Pineapple Rice Bowl!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Tropical Pineapple Rice Bowl:

Cook the Rice

In a saucepan, combine jasmine rice and coconut milk. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and let simmer for 15 minutes or until the rice is fluffy.

Prepare the Pineapple and Vegetables

While the rice cooks, prepare your fresh ingredients by dicing the pineapple and red bell pepper. Chop the green onions and cilantro.

Mix Everything Together

Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork. Stir in the diced pineapple, red bell pepper, green onions, cilantro, and lime juice. Season with salt to taste.

Serve and Enjoy

Divide the rice mixture into bowls and top with toasted coconut flakes, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy your Tropical Pineapple Rice Bowl!

This delectable dish is best served fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

Pro Tips

For added protein, feel free to include grilled shrimp or chicken on top of your rice bowl. You can also switch up the vegetables based on what you have at home for a personal touch!

Make-Ahead Tips

This Tropical Pineapple Rice Bowl is great for meal prepping. You can cook the rice and chop the vegetables ahead of time, storing them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The rice will stay fresh for about 4–5 days, while the chopped vegetables should ideally be used within 2–3 days to maintain their crispness and flavor.

If you want to assemble the dish later, I recommend waiting to add the lime juice until serving time, as it can cause the pineapple to soften too much if mixed in advance. This way, you’ll retain the bright, vibrant flavors that make each bowl refreshing and enjoyable.

Serving Suggestions

This rice bowl makes for an excellent base, allowing you to customize your toppings. Consider adding grilled shrimp or chicken for a protein boost. Alternatively, for a vegetarian option, black beans or chickpeas can provide the necessary protein while enhancing the dish’s overall heartiness and flavor profile.

For an extra punch of flavor, try drizzling a spicy chili sauce or a yogurt-based dressing over the top when serving. These additions not only elevate the dish but also cater to different palates, transforming a simple rice bowl into a culinary adventure.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?

Yes, but the cooking time will increase. Follow the package instructions for cooking brown rice.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients are gluten-free, making it a perfect choice for those with dietary restrictions.

→ How can I make this dish vegan?

This recipe is already vegan as long as you use plant-based coconut milk.

→ Can I prep this dish in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the rice and chop the vegetables ahead of time. Assemble everything just before serving for the best flavor.