With the holiday season just around the corner, it’s time to start making preparations. Sure, you’ve probably already got your Thanksgiving and Christmas meals planned and prepped, but what about the rest of the festive period? Having easy and convenient meals that you can make ahead of time ensures you’ll always have something delicious in reserve for the moment you need it. From Indian-inspired chicken feasts to salads and vegan delights, Mahatma® Rice is here with meals to please all tastes.
What Makes Rice the Ultimate Make-Ahead Ingredient
Rice is more than just an ingredient; it’s the foundation upon which some of the world’s most beloved recipes are built. Versatile, budget-friendly, and satisfying, rice is the perfect base for dishes you can prepare in advance and simply reheat when guests arrive. Here’s why it’s the perfect ingredient to plan meals around throughout the holiday season:
- Stays fresh and tasty when stored properly.
- Pairs with anything—from roasted veggies to festive proteins.
- Budget-friendly and filling, perfect for large gatherings.
- Easy to reheat without losing flavor or texture
The Ultimate Slow-Cook Recipe to Make Ahead
Got a free morning ahead of you and want to make the most of it? How about getting ahead of the game with this Ropa Vieja with Red Beans and Rice! Don’t be put off by its 2-hour cook time; this dish is deceptively easy to make thanks to our step-by-step guide. Ropa vieja is a Spanish beef stew recipe that has long been a winter comfort food staple throughout the region. However, at Mahatma® Rice, we like to put our own spin on classic dishes; that’s why we’ve paired it with our New Orleans-inspired Ready to Heat Red Beans & Rice. The result? A flavor-rich meal that’s deeply satisfying and perfect for making ahead.
Delightful Dishes to Dazzle Visitors
Let’s face it: we’ve all been there. The holiday season brings many people home from places far afield, and impromptu visits are what make this time of year so special. If you’re looking to dazzle an old friend with a light and delicious dish to enjoy upon arrival, we’ve got plenty of inspiration for you.
First up is this breathtaking Tuna Tartare with Rice and Avocado. Shaped like a tower and easy to make ahead and store in the refrigerator, this simple dish is sure to show your guests how much you appreciate their visit. The best part? You can rustle this unique dish up in just 15 minutes.
Alternatively, if you’d prefer a bite-sized option to serve on a platter when guests drop by, these Arancini Air-Fryer Rice Balls will be right down your alley. Easy to prepare and even easier to store, these hand-held treats will add a gourmet touch to any occasion.
Fun with Fajitas
Fajitas are a terrific option when you’re looking to rustle up something fast and fun. All you need is an ample supply of tortillas and a quick and easy fajita recipe you can prepare ahead of time. Enter our sumptuous Fried Chicken Fajitas with Basmati Rice.
Ready in 20 minutes, this veggie-packed chicken fajitas recipe is a holiday season lifesaver. Not only is it a convenient option for busy days, but it’s also ideal for storing away in containers to enjoy on whatever day you want. What’s more, it’s ideal for cooking in batches.
Easy Dessert to Prepare and Store
Finally, if you want to have a sweet option in reserve for busy days when you won’t get time to whip up a dessert, here’s a rice pudding recipe you can make ahead. This Matcha Rice Pudding is not only a trendy treat, but it’s also easy to store and quick to make. A perfect introduction to the rich flavor of matcha powder, it’s also sure to be a hit among rice pudding traditionalists.
Storage and Reheating Tips
The success of your week’s make-ahead meals requires a little forethought. Following correct storage procedures is key to ensuring your meals retain their flavor when frozen. Here’s what you do:
- Cool before refrigerating: Let rice dishes cool completely before sealing in airtight containers.
- Use within 3–4 days for the best taste and safety.
- Reheat with a splash of broth or water to keep rice fluffy and moist.
- Freeze for later: Most rice dishes freeze beautifully for up to a month.
Holiday Season Cooking Made Easy
Rice proves to be the ultimate ingredient for the season—versatile, budget-friendly, and easy to store and reheat without losing its delicious texture. We hope these recipes help to keep your kitchen stress-free this holiday season, so you’re free to enjoy the things that really matter during the festive period.
For more cooking tips and recipe ideas, drop by the Mahatma® Rice kitchen and see what we’ve been cooking.