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Weeknight • Vegetarian

Mediterranean Lentil and Rice Pilaf

A flavorful and satisfying vegetarian lentil and rice pilaf, packed with Mediterranean-inspired seasonings and fresh herbs.

Prep
10 min
Cook
30 min
Servings
4
Level
Weeknight
Mediterranean Lentil and Rice Pilaf

Bring the sunny flavors of the Mediterranean to your table with this delightful Lentil and Rice Pilaf! It's a nourishing one-pot meal that's bursting with aromatic spices, tender lentils, fluffy rice, and fresh herbs. Perfect for a cozy vegetarian dinner or a hearty side dish, this recipe is as simple as it is delicious.

Ingredients

Yield: 4 servings

Main

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon (optional, for depth)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
  • Lemon wedges, for serving

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

  2. Step 2

    Stir in minced garlic, oregano, cumin, and cinnamon (if using). Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

  3. Step 3

    Add rinsed lentils and rice to the pot, stirring to coat them with the spices and oil.

  4. Step 4

    Pour in the vegetable broth and diced tomatoes (with their liquid). Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover tightly, and simmer for 20-25 minutes.

  5. Step 5

    Do not lift the lid during simmering! After 20-25 minutes, check if all liquid has been absorbed and the lentils and rice are tender. If not, re-cover and cook for a few more minutes.

  6. Step 6

    Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

  7. Step 7

    Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges for a bright finish.

Tips

  • Rinsing your lentils and rice helps remove extra starch and dirt, leading to fluffier results.
  • For an extra layer of flavor, you can add some chopped spinach or kale during the last 5 minutes of cooking.

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