Signature Recipe
Savory Herb-Infused Quinoa Pilaf with Almonds
A fragrant quinoa pilaf studded with fresh herbs and crunchy almonds.
As the weather warms and the flowers begin to bloom, it’s the perfect time to embrace fresh, vibrant dishes that celebrate the season. One such dish that captures the essence of spring is a delightful quinoa pilaf, a nourishing and aromatic blend that will transport your taste buds to a sunlit garden. With its fluffy grains and a medley of fresh herbs, this recipe is not only a feast for the senses but also a testament to the beauty of simple, wholesome ingredients.
At the heart of this dish is quinoa, a versatile grain packed with protein and a subtle nutty flavor that serves as the perfect canvas for a burst of other textures and tastes. The quinoa is cooked in savory vegetable broth, infusing it with rich flavor that elevates the entire dish. As it simmers, the gentle aroma of sautéed onions wafts through the kitchen, promising warmth and comfort in every bite.
What makes this pilaf truly special is the addition of fresh herbs and crunchy almonds. Imagine a sprinkle of vibrant parsley and perhaps a hint of fragrant thyme, both adding layers of freshness that awaken the palate. The toasted almonds provide a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender quinoa, making each forkful a delightful experience.
The cooking process is wonderfully simple, taking just 30 minutes from start to finish. With a quick prep time of only 10 minutes, you’ll find that this dish is perfect for a busy weeknight or a leisurely weekend gathering. Whether you serve it as a side dish or a light main course, this quinoa pilaf promises to be a colorful and nourishing addition to your table, inviting everyone to enjoy the bounty of the season.
Savory Herb-Infused Quinoa Pilaf with Almonds
Ingredient list and step-by-step instructions generated for AI Food Bytes readers.
Main
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa (rinsed)
- 2 cups vegetable broth (or water)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (chopped)
- 1 teaspoon fresh parsley (chopped)
- 1/2 cup almonds (sliced or chopped)
Steps
- In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add the rinsed quinoa and toast for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat, cover, and let simmer for 15 minutes or until quinoa is fluffy.
- Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes.
- Fluff quinoa with a fork, then stir in the thyme, parsley, almonds, salt, and pepper.
- Serve warm as a side dish.
General Notes
- Serves 4
- A fragrant quinoa pilaf studded with fresh herbs and crunchy almonds.