Easy Rice Pilaf with Peas and Carrots
Rice pilaf with fluffy basmati rice, warming spices, and aromatics is a delicious way to take plain ol’ rice to the next level! Perfect for busy weeknights as it comes together in just 30 minutes!
Servings: 8
Ingredients
- 2 cups basmati rice
- Extra virgin olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 to 3 carrots, peeled and chopped
- Kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon coriander
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon Aleppo pepper
- ¼ teaspoon ground turmeric
Nut Topping:
- ¼ cup walnut halves, toasted
- ¼ cup pine nuts, toasted
- ¼ cup sliced almonds, toasted
- ¼ cup dried fruit, such as raisins or chopped dried apricots
Instructions
- Wash the rice very well a few times until the water is clear. You can let it soak in water for about 10 minutes or so while preparing the rest of the ingredients.
- In a large heavy pan with a lid, heat 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onions and garlic and cook for about 3 to 5 minutes, tossing regularly until softened. Add the peas and carrots. Season with a good pinch of kosher salt. Add the spices and mix to combine. Cook for another 5 minutes or so, tossing regularly until the carrots have softened.
- Drain the rice well and add it to the pan. Toss around to make sure the rice is well-coated with the spices. Pour in 2 ¼ cup of water. And season well with a big dash of kosher salt. Bring to a boil, then turn the heat to low. Cover and cook for 15 to 20 minutes until the rice is cooked through and has absorbed all the liquid.
- Allow the rice about 5 to 10 minutes to rest before serving.
- Serve with the nuts and raisins on top.
Video
Notes
- For best results be sure to wash the rice until the water runs clear. And once cooked, allow the rice to sit undisturbed for about 10 minutes or so before serving.
- Leftovers and storage: Wait for the rice to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat.
- Visit Our Shop for quality Mediterranean ingredients including extra virgin olive oils and spices.
Nutrition
Calories: 282.4kcal | Carbohydrates: 48.1g | Protein: 6.6g | Fat: 7.4g | Saturated Fat: 0.7g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.7g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2.3g | Sodium: 18.1mg | Potassium: 278.9mg | Fiber: 3.4g | Sugar: 2.8g | Vitamin A: 2787.6IU | Vitamin C: 9.8mg | Calcium: 42.4mg | Iron: 1.4mg
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