Rice Pilaf With Almonds
A flavorful rice pilaf featuring toasted almonds, sweet raisins, and fragrant parsley, perfect as a side dish for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped onion in margarine for about 5 minutes.
- Add Minute rice and saute for 3 minutes.
- Add beef broth, salt, and raisins; bring to a boil.
- Remove from heat, cover, and let stand for 5 minutes.
- Stir in slivered almonds and chopped parsley.
- Fluff with a fork before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using chicken broth instead of beef broth. You can substitute the slivered almonds with chopped walnuts or pecans for a different texture. For added depth, include spices like cumin or a pinch of cinnamon. If you prefer a vegetarian option, swap the beef broth for vegetable broth. This dish can also be enhanced with sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers or carrots.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Rice Pilaf With Almonds alongside grilled chicken or as a base for Miniature Meatballs for a delightful meal. It pairs well with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete dinner. For a festive touch, garnish with additional chopped parsley or a sprinkle of lemon zest to brighten the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of broth or water to the pilaf in a pan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave it covered with a damp paper towel for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rice Pilaf With Almonds contains roughly 1120 calories, with 12g protein, 92g carbohydrates, and 84g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (30% of the Daily Value), protein (24% of the Daily Value), and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2592mg per serving (113% of the Daily Value).
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 make this rice pilaf ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this rice pilaf ahead of time. Simply follow the recipe, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, reheat it gently as described above. This makes it a great option for meal prep or entertaining guests.
What can I add to make this dish more filling?
To make this dish more filling, consider adding cooked protein such as diced chicken, turkey, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option. You can also mix in sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to enhance both the nutrition and flavor of the pilaf.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, to make this Rice Pilaf gluten-free, simply ensure that your beef broth is labeled gluten-free. Additionally, you can substitute Minute rice with a gluten-free rice product or quinoa, which will provide a similar texture while keeping the dish gluten-free.
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).