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: 2 cups cooked jasmine rice; 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 cup green peas (frozen is fine); 1 tablespoon coconut oil; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon lime juice; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Light & Fresh Recipes

I absolutely love creating meals that transport me to a tropical paradise, and this Tropical Pineapple Rice Bowl does just that! The combination of fluffy rice, vibrant pineapple, and a hint of coconut brings a refreshing twist to my dinner table. Every bite is bursting with flavor and sunshine, making it perfect for warm evenings or when I just need a little boost of joy. I can’t wait to share my tips on how to make this dish a quick and satisfying meal for you and your loved ones.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-30T03:33:29.463Z

When I first made this Tropical Pineapple Rice Bowl, I was blown away by how simple yet delicious it turned out. The key is to let the rice soak up all the flavors from the sautéed vegetables and pineapple. I usually add a splash of lime juice at the end, as it brightens the whole dish.

One of my favorite parts is the crispy edges of the rice that come from letting it fry slightly in the pan. It adds a delightful texture that keeps me going back for seconds. Trust me, this bowl doesn’t just feed the stomach; it feeds the soul!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Sweet and savory harmony with every bite
Colorful and inviting presentation
Fast and easy to prepare for busy weeknights

      

Essential Ingredients for Flavor and Texture

Using jasmine rice is key for this Tropical Pineapple Rice Bowl. Its fragrant aroma and slightly sticky texture help to absorb all the flavors, making every bite delightful. If jasmine rice isn't available, you can substitute it with long-grain white rice, but note that the final texture may be slightly drier and less aromatic.

Fresh pineapple adds a burst of sweetness and acidity, balancing the savory soy sauce perfectly. If fresh pineapple isn't at hand, canned pineapple can work in a pinch. Just be sure to drain it well and adjust the soy sauce to avoid excess liquid, which can make the dish soggy. For those looking for a lower-calorie option, diced mango could also provide a similar sweetness.

Techniques for Perfectly Crisp Rice

Achieving crispy rice is all about controlling the heat and timing. After combining the cooked rice with the sautéed ingredients, let it sit undisturbed in the skillet for 5-7 minutes over medium heat. This allows the moisture to evaporate, creating a beautiful golden crust on the bottom. If you find that your rice isn’t crisping up, increase the heat slightly, but watch closely to prevent burning.

Using a non-stick skillet can greatly ease the cleanup process when crisping rice. If you prefer cast iron for its excellent heat retention, just make sure to use a bit more coconut oil to prevent sticking. Additionally, avoid stirring too frequently; letting the rice cook undisturbed is vital for creating those crispy edges.

Ingredients

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

Ingredients

2 cups cooked jasmine rice
1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 cup green peas (frozen is fine)
1 tablespoon coconut oil
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon lime juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Enjoy the vibrant flavors of your creation!

Instructions

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

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat the coconut oil over medium heat. Add the diced bell pepper and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.

Add Pineapple and Peas

Stir in the diced pineapple and green peas, continuing to cook for another 5 minutes until everything is heated through.

Combine with Rice

Add the cooked jasmine rice to the skillet, pouring in the soy sauce and lime juice. Mix well to combine all the ingredients. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Crisp it Up

Cook the rice mixture for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing it to fry slightly and get crispy on the bottom.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. Enjoy warm!

Now you’re ready to enjoy a tropical feast!

Pro Tips

For an added kick, consider mixing in some diced jalapeños or a drizzle of sriracha. You can also try substituting the jasmine rice with brown rice or quinoa for a healthier option.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Tropical Pineapple Rice Bowl can be a great make-ahead meal. You can prepare the rice, sauté the vegetables, and seal them separately in airtight containers. This allows you to quickly combine everything when you're ready to serve. The mixture can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just reheat in a skillet over medium heat until hot, adding a splash of soy sauce to freshen up the flavors.

For those looking to batch cook, you can double the recipe easily. Just ensure that your skillet is large enough to accommodate the increased ingredients without overcrowding, which can lead to steaming rather than sautéing. If freezing, allow the rice bowl to cool completely before portioning into freezer-safe containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This rice bowl makes an inviting main dish, but it also pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a more protein-packed meal. To enhance the tropical vibe, serve it alongside extra lime wedges or a spoonful of spicy mango salsa. You can even add a sprinkle of sesame seeds for extra texture and flavor.

Feel free to mix up the vegetables by incorporating carrots, broccoli, or snap peas, depending on what you have on hand. These can be added during the sautéing step for a colorful, nutritious twist. If you're looking for a different flavor profile, try adding a teaspoon of curry powder or ginger while sautéing the vegetables to introduce a warm, aromatic layer to the dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?

Yes, canned pineapple works well too. Just be sure to drain it properly before adding.

→ What else can I add to this bowl?

Feel free to include additional veggies like carrots or avocado, or even protein such as shrimp or chicken.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.

→ Can leftovers be reheated?

Absolutely! Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.