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Rice and Noodle Pilaf with Toasted Almonds

This aromatic rice and noodle pilaf is a wonderful vegetarian side dish that brings a sophisticated touch to your dinner table. By toasting the orzo in butter before simmering, you develop a deep, nutty base that perfectly complements the fluffy long-grain rice. Infused with warm cinnamon, bay, and bright lemon zest, the grains absorb a wealth of fragrance, creating a dish that is far more than the sum of its humble parts.

Ideal for serving alongside roasted vegetables or as a base for a Mediterranean feast, this homemade pilaf provides a lovely contrast in textures. The addition of toasted almonds adds a necessary crunch, making it a reliable choice for family meals or effortless entertaining. It is a simple yet refined way to elevate a store-cupboard staple into something truly special.

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Ingredients for Rice and Noodle Pilaf with Toasted Almonds

  • 1/2 stick unsalted butter

  • 230g orzo

  • 350g long-grain white rice

  • 2 (4-inch) strips lemon zest

  • 1 Turkish bay leaf or 1/2 California

  • 1 (3- to 4-inch) cinnamon stick

  • 1325ml water

  • 120ml whole almonds with skins (70g), toasted and coarsely chopped

How to make Rice and Noodle Pilaf with Toasted Almonds

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. Add rice, stirring until coated with butter, then add zest, bay leaf, cinnamon stick, water, 1 1/2 teaspoons salt, and 1/4 teaspoons 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. Remove from heat and let stand, covered, 5 minutes.

Fluff pilaf with a fork and spoon into a bowl, discarding zest, bay leaf, and cinnamon stick. Serve pilaf with almonds sprinkled on top.

Clause de non-responsabilité

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Historique de l'article

Les informations contenues dans cette page ont été évaluées par des cliniciens qualifiés.

  • 17 janvier 2026 | Publié à l'origine

    Auteur: :

    UK recipe editors

    Examiné par des pairs

    UK recipe editors
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