Embark on a culinary journey to the vibrant Mediterranean with our Greek vegetable pilaf, a delectable dish that harmonizes the flavors of fresh vegetables, aromatic herbs, and fluffy rice. This enticing pilaf showcases a medley of colorful vegetables, including crisp bell peppers, tender zucchini, succulent carrots, and vibrant green beans, all sautéed to perfection. The addition of fragrant herbs like dill, parsley, and mint imparts a refreshing touch, while savory spices such as cumin and paprika add depth and warmth. Accompany this delightful pilaf with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or tangy tzatziki sauce for a complete and satisfying meal. But that's not all! This article also features a collection of other pilaf recipes that will tantalize your taste buds. From the classic Turkish pilaf to the hearty Persian jewelled rice, each recipe is a testament to the diverse culinary heritage of the region. So, gather your ingredients, prepare your taste buds, and let's delve into the delightful world of pilaf!
Let's cook with our recipes!
GREEK STYLE RICE RECIPE (GREEK PILAF)
This easy Greek style rice is so easy to make and makes the perfect side dish for your greek chicken or souvlaki. With just a handful of ingredients, you can make this restaurant style Greek rice pilaf at home! It is wonderful served hot or allow it to cool and serve it at room temperature as part of a picnic. Or portion it out with some grilled chicken and fresh spinach for your lunch prep!
Provided by Claire | Sprinkle and Sprouts
Categories Side
Number Of Ingredients 11
Steps:
- Peel and chop the onion into small chunks then peel and mince the garlic.
- Heat the extra virgin olive oil in a large saute pan/ deep frying pan (Use one you have a lid for)
- Add in the onions and cook over low heat for 4-5 minutes until soft, Add the garlic and cook for a further minute.
- Pour in the rice and stir to coat in the olive and onion mixture.
- Add the zest and juice of one lemon, the dried oregano and then pour in the hot vegetable broth.
- Bring to a simmer then cover and cook for 15 minutes over low heat.
- Once the time is done, remove the pan from the heat and leave it covered for 10 minutes.
- Once this time is done, remove the lid and squeeze over the juice of the remaining lemon.
- Taste the rice for salt, then garnish with your fresh herbs and finish with extra virgin olive oil and plenty of black pepper and salt if needed.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 274 kcal, Carbohydrate 43 g, Protein 4 g, Fat 10 g, SaturatedFat 1 g, Fiber 2 g, Sugar 2 g, ServingSize 1 serving
GREEK LEMON PILAF
Make and share this Greek Lemon Pilaf recipe from Food.com.
Provided by PalatablePastime
Categories Rice
Time 27m
Yield 3-4 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 7
Steps:
- In a heavy saucepan, saute onion in butter until tender.
- Add rice and orzo and cook, stirring, for 2 minutes.
- Add chicken broth and lemon juice and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes or until rice is tender and liquid has been absorbed.
- Fluff pilaf up with fork and stir in chopped parsley.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 361, Fat 9.2, SaturatedFat 5.3, Cholesterol 20.4, Sodium 571.5, Carbohydrate 59.2, Fiber 1.6, Sugar 2.4, Protein 9.1
GREEK VEGETABLE PILAF
I created this on the fly one evening, and even my very picky son liked it well enough that he wants to have it again. You can save some time by cooking the lentils and couscous while the vegetables simmer. I serve it as a vegetarian main dish, but it could be a side dish just as easily. Za'tar is a mixture of thyme and sesame seeds, and sumac is a citrus-flavored spice that is made from crushed sumac berries--NOT to be confused with American poison sumac that is not edible. Both can be purchased in Mediterranean grocery stores or online.
Provided by KiminyMe
Categories One Dish Meal
Time 40m
Yield 4-6 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 18
Steps:
- Make the yogurt-sumac sauce by mixing together yogurt, sumac powder, 1 clove minced garlic, and 1 tablespoon minced onion. Allow to sit at room temperature for about an hour. (Can be made ahead of time and refrigerated.).
- Cook the lentils in simmering water until tender, following package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Put couscous in a bowl with 3 cups of boiling water. Stir and let sit away from heat until all water is absorbed and couscous is tender. Set aside.
- Heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until onion is transparent. Add garlic and bell pepper, and sauté for 2-3 minutes, until vegetables are softened. Add carrots and green beans. Cover and simmer for about 10 minutes, until green beans are tender. Stir occasionally.
- When green beans are cooked, stir in the spinach and simmer 1-2 minutes, until spinach is wilted. Stir in the za'tar, salt and pepper to taste, and remove from heat.
- Mix the vegetable mixture with the lentils, couscous, and feta. Stir gently until well combined. Serve topped with diced tomatoes and cucumber, and with yogurt-sumac sauce to taste.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 839.9, Fat 21.8, SaturatedFat 12.3, Cholesterol 69.5, Sodium 788, Carbohydrate 122.2, Fiber 24, Sugar 18.1, Protein 39.8
Tips:
- Mise en place: Before you start cooking, make sure you have all the ingredients and equipment ready. This will help you save time and avoid scrambling during the cooking process.
- Use high-quality ingredients: The quality of your ingredients will greatly affect the taste of your pilaf. Use fresh, flavorful vegetables and a good quality olive oil.
- Cook the rice properly: Rice is the base of the pilaf, so it's important to cook it properly. Rinse the rice before cooking to remove any starch and impurities. Use a ratio of 1 cup of rice to 2 cups of liquid (water or broth). Bring the liquid to a boil, then add the rice and reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and all the liquid has been absorbed.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: When sautéing the vegetables, don't overcrowd the pan. This will prevent them from cooking evenly and becoming soggy.
- Season the pilaf to taste: Once the pilaf is cooked, season it with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice or a dollop of yogurt for extra flavor.
Conclusion:
Greek vegetable pilaf is a delicious and versatile dish that can be served as a main course or a side dish. It's a great way to use up leftover vegetables and it's also a healthy and affordable meal. With a few simple tips, you can make a perfect pilaf every time. So next time you're looking for a quick and easy meal, give this Greek vegetable pilaf a try. You won't be disappointed!
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