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Lemon Herb Pilaf with Fresh Parsley and Garlic

Lemon Herb Pilaf with Fresh Parsley and Garlic Bliss

Lemon Herb Pilaf with Fresh Parsley and Garlic is a light and fluffy side dish that elevates any meal with its vibrant flavors.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 200

Ingredients
  

For the Pilaf
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice Can substitute with basmati or jasmine rice.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil For sautéing the aromatics.
  • 1 medium yellow onion Finely chopped for even cooking.
  • 2 cloves garlic Minced for maximum flavor.
  • 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth Enhances flavor without too much sodium.
  • 1 medium lemon Zested and juiced for freshness.
  • to taste salt Essential for flavor enhancement.
  • to taste black pepper Essential for flavor enhancement.
  • 1 leaf bay leaf Adds aroma and depth.
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano Optional for Mediterranean flavor.
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley Chopped, adds freshness and color.
Optional Add-Ins
  • 1 cup diced carrots or peas For extra nutrition and color.
  • 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds Adds crunch and texture.
  • 2 tablespoons butter Optional finishing touch.

Equipment

  • medium saucepan

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Prep Ingredients: Finely chop onion, mince garlic, zest and juice lemon, and chop parsley.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in saucepan, add onion and sauté until translucent. Add garlic and sauté briefly.
  3. Toast Rice: Add rice to saucepan and toast until slightly golden.
  4. Combine Ingredients: Pour in broth, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and bay leaf. Bring to boil.
  5. Simmer Rice: Cover and simmer on low for 15 minutes.
  6. Fluff and Finish: Let sit for 5 minutes. Discard bay leaf and fluff rice with fork.
  7. Serve Warm: Transfer to a dish and serve warm or at room temperature.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 37gProtein: 4gFat: 5gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gSodium: 180mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 5IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 8mg

Notes

Allow the pilaf to rest for 5 minutes after cooking to enhance flavor. Customize by adding veggies or nuts in moderation.

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