Savory Rice and Quinoa Pilaf Recipe

4 stars
4.36 (17)
Savory Rice and Quinoa Pilaf Recipe
Prep Time:
10 mins
Cook Time:
30 mins
Total Time:
40mins
Category:
Recipe by Administrator
Published on February 02, 2024

Enjoy the flavors of a delicious and nutritious Savory Rice and Quinoa Pilaf. This recipe combines fluffy white rice, protein-rich quinoa, and a medley of vegetables and spices to create a satisfying and wholesome dish. Perfect as a side dish or a light meal on its own, this pilaf is easy to prepare and full of flavor. Plus, it's a great way to sneak in some extra nutrients into your diet!

Ingredients

  • 1 cup white rice
  • 1/2 cup quinoa
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 carrot, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 zucchini, diced
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Chopped parsley, for garnish

Directions

  1. In a fine-mesh sieve, rinse the rice and quinoa under cold water until the water runs clear.
  2. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Add the carrot, red bell pepper, and zucchini to the pan and cook for an additional 3 minutes, until the vegetables begin to soften.
  4. Add the rice, quinoa, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper to the pan. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
  5. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice and quinoa are tender and the liquid is absorbed.
  6. Remove the pan from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
  7. Fluff the pilaf with a fork and transfer it to a serving dish. Garnish with chopped parsley.
  8. Serve hot as a side dish or a light meal.

Interesting Facts

  • Quinoa is a complete protein source, containing all nine essential amino acids.
  • Rice and quinoa are gluten-free grains, making this pilaf suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
  • The combination of spices like cumin and turmeric adds a warm and earthy flavor to the dish.