Description
Easy Rice Pilaf is a flavorful side dish made with rice, toasted orzo, and aromatic vegetables, simmered in broth until perfectly tender and fluffy.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1/2 cup orzo pasta
- 2 tbsp butter or olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 1/4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add orzo and cook, stirring frequently, until golden brown, about 3–4 minutes.
- Add chopped onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds more.
- Add rice, broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18–20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
- Stir in fresh parsley if using, and serve warm.
Notes
- For added flavor, sauté the rice with the orzo before adding the broth.
- Substitute brown rice, adjusting cooking time and liquid as needed.
- Great paired with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or stews.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 10mg