Rice and Noodle Pilaf with Toasted Almonds

Health score
3%
Rice and Noodle Pilaf with Toasted Almonds
50 min.
8
301kcal

Suggestions


Imagine sitting down to a fragrant bowl of Rice and Noodle Pilaf with Toasted Almonds, a delightful side dish that promises to elevate any meal. This dish artfully combines the nutty flavor of toasted orzo and long-grain white rice, creating a satisfying texture that pairs perfectly with an array of main courses. The warming notes of cinnamon and the brightness of lemon zest infuse each bite with a tantalizing aroma that will whisk your senses away.

Whether you're hosting a family dinner or a festive gathering with friends, this versatile pilaf shines as not just a side dish, but also an exquisite antipasti, starter, or snack. With a preparation time of just 50 minutes, it fits seamlessly into your menu planning, creating a balance that’s flavorful yet uncomplicated. Plus, the crunch of toasted almonds sprinkled on top adds a delightful finish, making each serving a crunchy experience.

What’s more, the dish is perfect for meal prepping; you can even make the pilaf ahead of time and reheat it to perfection. Imagine the compliments you'll receive when your guests savor the delicious harmony of flavors! Treat your loved ones to a memorable culinary experience with this beautiful Rice and Noodle Pilaf—the perfect blend of tradition and taste that anyone can master in the comfort of their kitchen.

Ingredients

  • stick cinnamon (3- to 4-inch)
  • inch lemon zest 
  • cup orzo pasta 
  •  turkish bay leaf or 
  • 0.5 stick butter unsalted
  • 5.5 cups water 
  • 1.5 cups rice long-grain white
  • 0.5 cup almonds whole with skins (2 1/2 ounces), toasted and coarsely chopped

Equipment

  • bowl
  • oven
  • pot
  • baking pan
  • aluminum foil

Directions

  1. Melt butter in a 4- to 5-quart heavy pot over medium heat and stir in orzo. Cook, stirring frequently, until orzo is golden, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add rice, stirring until coated with butter, then add zest, bay leaf, cinnamon stick, water, 1 1/2 teaspoons salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Bring to a boil, uncovered, then cover tightly and cook over low heat until water is absorbed and rice and orzo are tender, 25 to 30 minutes.
  3. Remove from heat and let stand, covered, 5 minutes.
  4. Fluff pilaf with a fork and spoon into a bowl, discarding zest, bay leaf, and cinnamon stick.
  5. Serve pilaf with almonds sprinkled on top.
  6. · Almonds can be toasted 2 days ahead and kept, covered, at room temperature.· Pilaf, without almonds, can be made 1 day ahead and spread in a 13- by 9-inch baking pan. Cool in pan, uncovered, then chill, covered. Bring to room temperature and sprinkle about 2/3 cup water over top, then reheat, tightly covered with foil, in a 350°F oven, about 25 minutes.

Nutrition Facts

Calories301kcal
Protein9.18%
Fat31.94%
Carbs58.88%

Properties

Glycemic Index
14.77
Glycemic Load
22.41
Inflammation Score
-3
Nutrition Score
8.3156522259764%

Flavonoids

Cyanidin
0.22mg
Catechin
0.11mg
Epigallocatechin
0.23mg
Epicatechin
0.05mg
Eriodictyol
0.02mg
Naringenin
0.04mg
Isorhamnetin
0.24mg
Kaempferol
0.03mg
Quercetin
0.03mg

Nutrients percent of daily need

Calories:300.87kcal
15.04%
Fat:10.71g
16.48%
Saturated Fat:4.08g
25.53%
Carbohydrates:44.44g
14.81%
Net Carbohydrates:41.76g
15.19%
Sugar:1.05g
1.17%
Cholesterol:15.18mg
5.06%
Sodium:12.06mg
0.52%
Alcohol:0g
100%
Alcohol %:0%
100%
Protein:6.93g
13.86%
Manganese:0.83mg
41.56%
Selenium:17.56µg
25.08%
Vitamin E:2.53mg
16.85%
Copper:0.25mg
12.68%
Phosphorus:120.61mg
12.06%
Magnesium:45.17mg
11.29%
Fiber:2.67g
10.69%
Vitamin B2:0.13mg
7.93%
Zinc:0.96mg
6.39%
Vitamin B3:1.22mg
6.08%
Calcium:52.16mg
5.22%
Iron:0.92mg
5.09%
Vitamin B6:0.1mg
5.06%
Vitamin B5:0.49mg
4.92%
Potassium:154.93mg
4.43%
Vitamin B1:0.06mg
4.1%
Vitamin C:3.3mg
4%
Vitamin A:179.91IU
3.6%
Folate:10.67µg
2.67%
Source:Epicurious