
Garlic Herb Rice Pilaf with Toasted Almonds and Lemon Zest
Looking to elevate your side dish game? This Garlic Herb Rice Pilaf is here to shine! It's fluffy, fragrant, and bursting with savory garlic, fresh herbs, crunchy toasted almonds, and a zesty lemon kick. It's simple yet fancy, and I can't wait for you to try it in your kitchen!
5.0 out of 5 (2 ratings)

Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
25 minutes
Servings
4 servings
Cuisine
Mediterranean
Ingredients
- •1 cup basmati rice
- •2 tablespoons olive oil
- •2 cloves garlic, minced
- •2 cups vegetable broth
- •1/4 teaspoon salt
- •1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- •1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- •1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- •1/4 teaspoon dried rosemary
- •1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted
- •1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- •1 teaspoon lemon zest
Instructions
- 1
Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then drain.
- 2
Heat olive oil in a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat.
- 3
Add minced garlic to the pan and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- 4
Add the rinsed rice and stir to coat it with the oil and garlic for about 2 minutes.
- 5
Pour vegetable broth into the saucepan and add salt, black pepper, thyme, oregano, and rosemary.
- 6
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a lid, and simmer for 15 minutes.
- 7
Remove the pan from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes to allow the rice to finish steaming.
- 8
Fluff the rice with a fork and gently stir in toasted almonds, parsley, and lemon zest.
- 9
Serve warm as a flavorful side dish.
Nutrition Information
Calories
220 calories
Protein
4g
Carbs
31g
Fat
9g
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of rice instead of basmati?
A: Yes, you can substitute basmati rice with jasmine rice or long-grain white rice, but the cooking time and water-to-rice ratio may vary slightly. For jasmine rice, use a 1:1.5 ratio of rice to liquid and adjust the simmering time to about 12-14 minutes.
Q: What can I use instead of vegetable broth?
A: You can substitute vegetable broth with chicken broth or even water if needed, though the flavor will be less rich. If using water, consider adding an extra pinch of salt or a bouillon cube to enhance the taste.
Q: How do I toast the almonds?
A: To toast the almonds, place them in a dry skillet over medium heat and stir frequently for 2-3 minutes until they are golden and fragrant. Be careful not to burn them as they can toast quickly once heated.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the rice pilaf up to 24 hours in advance. Let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, add a tablespoon of water or broth to the rice and warm it in a covered pan over low heat or in the microwave.
Q: What should I do if my rice turns out too sticky?
A: If the rice is sticky, it may not have been rinsed thoroughly before cooking. Rinsing removes excess starch that can cause stickiness. If this happens, you can spread the rice onto a baking sheet to cool slightly, then fluff it gently with a fork to separate the grains.
Q: Can I add other herbs or spices to the recipe?
A: Yes, you can customize the herb blend to your liking. Fresh or dried dill, basil, or even a pinch of smoked paprika can add a unique flavor. If using fresh herbs, add them at the end to preserve their bright flavor.
Q: What can I serve with this garlic herb rice pilaf?
A: This pilaf pairs well with grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or pan-seared fish. It can also be served as a base for a hearty vegetable stir-fry or alongside a creamy soup for a complete meal.
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