Description
This Delicious Quinoa Pilaf is a quick, healthy, and flavor-packed dish that combines toasted orzo, aromatic vegetables, and protein-rich quinoa simmered to fluffy perfection in savory vegetable stock. Finished with fresh parsley, it’s an ideal wholesome side or light main meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1/2 cup dry orzo
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 cup scallions, diced
- 1/2 cup carrots, diced small
- 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
- 1 cup quinoa
- 3 cups vegetable stock
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 bay leaves
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Toast the Orzo: In a medium-sized pan with a tight-fitting lid, brown the orzo in a dry pan over medium heat for about five minutes or until golden brown. Remove the orzo from the pan and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables and Orzo: Over medium-high heat, melt the butter in the olive oil. Add the diced scallions and carrots and sauté briefly until they begin to soften. Stir in the browned orzo and cook for an additional two minutes to blend flavors.
- Add Quinoa and Stock: Add the minced garlic, quinoa, vegetable stock, kosher salt, black pepper, and bay leaves to the pan. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Simmer the Pilaf: Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover with the tight-fitting lid and reduce heat to low. Let it simmer gently for 20 minutes until the quinoa is tender and has absorbed the liquid.
- Steam Rest: Remove the pan from heat without uncovering it. Keep it covered and allow the pilaf to rest for 10 minutes to ensure the quinoa becomes fully fluffy and light.
- Finish and Serve: Gently stir in the chopped fresh parsley to add a fresh, vibrant flavor. Serve warm as a satisfying main dish or side.
Notes
- For a nuttier flavor, rinse quinoa thoroughly before cooking to remove any bitterness.
- You can substitute vegetable stock with chicken stock if not vegetarian.
- To make this dish vegan, replace butter with additional olive oil or a vegan butter alternative.
- Serve alongside grilled vegetables or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
- This pilaf reheats well and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
