Experience the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with this wholesome Mediterranean Diet Rice with Almonds recipe! Perfectly nutty brown rice is simmered in rich vegetable broth, infused with aromatic garlic, onion, oregano, and a hint of zesty lemon, making every bite a delightful journey for your taste buds. Toasted almonds add an irresistible crunch, while a sprinkle of fresh parsley brings brightness and color to the final dish. This simple yet nutritious recipe comes together in under an hour and is perfect as a flavorful side or a satisfying main course for any occasion. Packed with heart-healthy ingredients like olive oil and almonds, this dish is an excellent choice for anyone looking to embrace Mediterranean cuisine.
Rinse the brown rice under cold running water to remove excess starch. Drain and set aside.
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the sliced almonds and toast them, stirring frequently, until they are golden brown. Be careful not to burn them. Remove from the pan and set aside.
In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the rinsed brown rice to the pan and stir to coat the rice with the oil and onion mixture.
Pour vegetable broth into the saucepan, add lemon zest, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir well.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and simmer for 40-45 minutes or until the rice is cooked and broth is absorbed.
Once the rice is cooked, remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes.
Fluff the rice with a fork and stir in the toasted almonds and freshly chopped parsley.
Serve the rice warm as a side dish or enjoy it as a main course.
Calories |
1118 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 68.6 g | 88% | |
| Saturated Fat | 7.9 g | 40% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 4.1 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 2349 mg | 102% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 106.1 g | 39% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 23.1 g | 82% | |
| Total Sugars | 15.6 g | ||
| Protein | 30.9 g | 62% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 482 mg | 37% | |
| Iron | 10.2 mg | 57% | |
| Potassium | 2211 mg | 47% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.