Rice Vegetable Pilaf
A flavorful rice vegetable pilaf featuring tender vegetables and aromatic herbs, perfect for a hearty vegetarian meal or a comforting side dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large pot, combine the chopped onion and 2 tablespoons of chicken broth until onions are tender.
- Shred the carrot and zucchini.
- Add rice, the remaining chicken broth, shredded vegetables, bay leaf, basil, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot.
- Bring the mixture to a rapid boil, stirring occasionally.
- Cover the pot, reduce heat to low, and cook for 20 minutes or until the moisture is absorbed and rice is tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding sautéed garlic or bell peppers alongside the onions. You can substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth to make it vegetarian. If you prefer a nuttier flavor, try using brown rice instead of white rice, but be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Adding a splash of lemon juice before serving can elevate the dish, making it pair beautifully with Grilled Rosemary Chicken.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the rice vegetable pilaf as a hearty side dish or as a base for grilled meats or roasted vegetables. It pairs well with Mediterranean recipes, offering a vibrant addition to any meal. For a complete dinner, consider serving it with a fresh salad or some roasted chicken, like Easy Chicken Marinade, for a balanced and flavorful plate.
Storage & Reheating
Allow leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. The pilaf can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, add a splash of water and microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until heated through. You can also reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little broth if needed to prevent sticking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rice Vegetable Pilaf contains roughly 393 calories, with 15g protein, 79g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (219% of the Daily Value), iron (132% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (127% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2362mg per serving (103% 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 use brown rice instead of white rice in this recipe?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it requires a longer cooking time. Typically, brown rice takes about 40-45 minutes to cook, so you may need to adjust the liquid and cooking time accordingly. Make sure to check for tenderness before serving.
What other vegetables can I add to the pilaf?
Feel free to get creative with your vegetable choices! Bell peppers, peas, or corn can all be great additions. You can also use leftover vegetables from other meals, such as roasted squash or steamed broccoli, to add more variety and flavor to the pilaf.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when sautéing the onions. You could also stir in some hot sauce at the end of cooking, allowing it to meld with the flavors. Adjust the amount to your taste for the perfect spicy kick!
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).