Almond Rice Pilaf
Almond Rice Pilaf offers a fragrant blend of rice, mushrooms, almonds, and green onions, perfect as a versatile side dish for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- Stir in rice, sliced mushrooms, Italian seasoning, and chopped green onions. Cook and stir for about 10 minutes or until tender.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased shallow 2-quart casserole dish.
- Cover and chill until ready to bake (this step can be done a day ahead).
- Preheat oven to 325°F.
- Stir in chicken broth and slivered almonds. Cover the casserole.
- Bake for 1 hour.
- Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider substituting half the chicken broth with white wine. If you prefer a nut-free version, you can omit the almonds or replace them with sunflower seeds. To enhance the dish, try adding sautéed garlic or a splash of lemon juice before serving. Ensure the rice is cooked through by checking it after 45 minutes of baking.
Serving Suggestions
This Almond Rice Pilaf pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. For an elegant presentation, garnish with additional chopped green onions and serve alongside a fresh salad. You can also enjoy it as a side dish with American recipes like Fried Chicken I.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth to prevent the rice from drying out and microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Almond Rice Pilaf contains roughly 1294 calories, with 10g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 122g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of regular rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it will require a longer cooking time. Adjust the chicken broth amount and baking time accordingly, as brown rice typically takes about 45-50 minutes to cook.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the rice mixture a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just add the chicken broth and almonds before baking. This makes it a convenient side for gatherings or weeknight dinners.
What can I serve with Almond Rice Pilaf?
Almond Rice Pilaf goes well with a variety of dishes. Consider pairing it with Pollo En Casserole for a hearty meal or serving it alongside roasted fish for a lighter option. It also complements salads nicely, providing a satisfying contrast.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).