Transform your weeknight dinners with this irresistible Vegetarian Classic Pilaf, a wholesome and colorful dish that delights with fragrant basmati rice, sautéed vegetables, and delicate spices. This easy-to-make recipe is infused with layers of flavor thanks to garlic, cumin, and a touch of olive oil, while frozen peas and vibrant bell peppers lend pops of color and nutrition. Simmered in a rich vegetable broth and finished with fresh parsley for a burst of brightness, this pilaf is the perfect side dish or a satisfying main when paired with a fresh salad. Ready in just under 45 minutes and serving four, it's the ultimate go-to recipe for healthy, vegan-friendly comfort food. Keywords: vegetarian pilaf recipe, easy rice dishes, vegan dinner ideas, healthy pilaf.
Rinse the basmati rice under cold running water until the water runs clear. Drain and set aside.
In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent.
Add the diced carrot and green bell pepper to the pan, sautéing for another 4-5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
Add the rinsed basmati rice to the pan and stir well, ensuring the rice grains are well-coated with the oil and vegetable mixture.
Pour in the vegetable broth, add the bay leaf, salt, black pepper, and cumin powder. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the saucepan with a lid and let it simmer for 15 minutes.
After 15 minutes, add the frozen peas into the pot, without stirring, and cover again. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
Turn off the heat and let the pilaf sit, covered, for another 5 minutes to allow all the flavors to meld together.
Remove the bay leaf, fluff the pilaf gently with a fork, and transfer to a serving dish.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your vegetarian classic pilaf with a side salad or as part of a larger meal.
Calories |
904 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 34.2 g | 44% | |
| Saturated Fat | 5.6 g | 28% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 4.1 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 2359 mg | 103% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 125.7 g | 46% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 20.7 g | 74% | |
| Total Sugars | 25.2 g | ||
| Protein | 27.4 g | 55% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 212 mg | 16% | |
| Iron | 9.9 mg | 55% | |
| Potassium | 1880 mg | 40% | |
*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.