rice pilaf with orzo recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
rice pilaf with orzo recipe
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The Best rice pilaf with orzo recipe

I’ve always been a fan of simple yet flavorful side dishes, and this rice pilaf with orzo recipe is a staple in my household. It’s a classic Mediterranean dish that’s easy to make and can be adapted to suit various tastes.

I first discovered this recipe while traveling in Greece, where it’s a common accompaniment to grilled meats and vegetables. The combination of fluffy rice, crunchy orzo, and aromatic spices is absolute perfection.

My family loves it when I serve it alongside roasted chicken or beef, and it’s also a great way to use up leftover vegetables. One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility – you can customize it to suit your dietary needs by substituting herbs and spices with your favorite flavors.

The result is always a delicious and satisfying side dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

Rice Pilaf with Orzo

Rice Pilaf with Orzo

4.6 from 966 votes

A flavorful dish combining rice and orzo pasta with aromatic vegetables and spices. This pilaf is perfect as a side dish for various meals.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pilaf

2 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup orzo pasta
1/2 cup basmati rice
2 cups vegetable broth
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp paprika

For Garnish

2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
1 tbsp lemon juice

👨‍🍳Directions

1Heat olive oil in the saucepan over medium heat.
2Add onion and garlic, sauté until softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3The onions should become soft and slightly golden.
4Add orzo and rice to the saucepan, stir to coat in the oil and onion mixture.
5Cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
6The orzo and rice will begin to toast slightly and absorb the flavors.
7Pour in vegetable broth, add salt, black pepper, thyme, and paprika.
8Stir well to combine.
9Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
10Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a lid, and let it simmer gently.
11The broth should be bubbling gently around the edges of the lid.
12Cook covered for 20-25 minutes, or until the orzo and rice are tender and the liquid is absorbed.
13Check for doneness by sampling a few grains, they should be soft and cooked through.
14If the mixture is still too liquidy, cook for a few more minutes.
15If it is too dry, add a little more broth or water.
16Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes.
17This allows the orzo and rice to finish steaming and become even more tender.
18The pilaf will also be easier to serve.

🔧Equipment

Medium saucepan with lid
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: You can add vegetables like peas or carrots for extra nutrition and flavor. For a creamier pilaf, stir in a tablespoon of butter at the end of cooking.

Watch Video Of How Rice Pilaf with Orzo Works

This rice pilaf with orzo recipe is always a good idea for any occasion and works well for family gatherings. I love that it can be easily customized with different vegetables, herbs, and spices to suit everyone’s tastes.

It is a versatile dish that can be served as a side or a main course, making it a great option for potlucks or dinner parties. You can serve this dish hot or at room temperature, and it pairs well with a variety of main dishes.

I often make a large batch and store it in the refrigerator for easy meal-prepping during the week. To reheat, simply add a little bit of water or broth and microwave until heated through.

Leftovers can also be frozen for up to three months, making this a convenient and delicious meal option for busy families. It is a comforting dish that is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Rice Pilaf with Orzo

Q1: What type of rice works best in this pilaf?

In our experience brown rice yields superior results due its nutty flavor firmer texture compared white variety though both will suffice.

Q2: Can you provide some suggestions for add-ins?

Try adding chopped nuts dried fruits cooked meats herbs spices lemon juice olive oil garlic onion carrots zucchini mushrooms cherry tomatoes feta cheese almonds walnuts pomegranate seeds etc…

Q3: How do you prevent overcooking?

Aim al dente consistency so each grain still slightly firm center avoid mushy texture especially important when using higher ratio water-to-rice.

Q4: What are some alternatives if I don’t have cumin?

You may substitute cumin ground coriander smoked paprika cinnamon turmeric thyme rosemary oregano basil parsley bay leaves cayenne pepper red pepper flakes etc according personal taste preferences.

Q5: Can I make ahead?

Yes! Prepare ingredients ahead mixing separately store refrigerator overnight then combine when ready cook.

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