Description
This homemade rice pilaf is a cozy and flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with any main course. With a mix of rice, orzo pasta, and aromatic seasonings, this dish is easy to make and adds a touch of elegance to your dinner table.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long grain white rice
- 1/2 cup orzo pasta
- 2 1/4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Main Ingredients:
Optional for Garnish:
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
- Sauté Aromatics: Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Toast Rice and Orzo: Add the rice and orzo, stirring frequently until both are lightly toasted and golden, about 4–5 minutes.
- Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth, then stir in the salt, pepper, and thyme. Bring to a boil.
- Simmer: Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18–20 minutes, or until the rice and orzo are tender and the liquid is fully absorbed.
- Rest and Fluff: Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth.
- You can substitute vermicelli for orzo if preferred.
- Add finely chopped carrots or peas for extra color and nutrition.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 380 mg
- Fat: 11 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg
