Basil Brown Rice with Lemon and Peas

Say hello to spring in your mouth.

This year it seems to have gotten that whole lion and lamb saying mixed up, having graced us with sunny skies, warm temps and green buds in the beginning of last month and now deciding to go backwards. Those green buds have turned brown from frost and I’m back to wearing fleeces on our daily walks.

When we lived in Florida and I wanted to move back to NY, the first thing I would say when people asked me why would be, “I miss the change of seasons.”

I wish someone would’ve slapped then me and reminded me that the “change of seasons” is bullshit. It’s cold then hot, it gets your hopes up, then it crushes them. It’s pretty much like an abusive relationship where every time (or year) you think it might just get a little better, but it never does. Every year I think maybe the leaves might actually be out for my birthday and every year I get daffodils and flowering fruit trees at best. People say you just need to get out of relationships like that.

I agree.

Until then, I’ll be shoving this lemony, basil rice and pea side dish down my throat to at least summon spring in my food.

Mother Nature can kiss it because I’ve got her beat. At least in the kitchen.

More side dishes like this to try

Cheesy quinoa
Spicy collard greens and rice
Tofu fried rice

If you like the lemon and basil combination, try this chicken and rice salad for a more substantial option.