In the bustling world of culinary arts, there’s always a quest for recipes that strike the perfect balance between taste and nutrition. The Easy Chickpea Rice Pilaf does precisely that, merging the rich flavors of the Mediterranean with the nutritional goodness each ingredient offers.
Table of Contents
Why Make This Easy Chickpea Rice Pilaf
Chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans, have been a staple in Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, and South Asian cuisines for centuries. Combined with the humble rice grain, chickpeas create a wholesome dish known as Chickpea Rice Pilaf. This dish is not just heartwarming and delicious; it also comes loaded with nutritional benefits. Use leftover rice and jarred chickpeas to make this quick side dish even easier!
Good For You Ingredients
- Chickpeas:
- Rich in Protein: Chickpeas are a fantastic source of plant-based protein, making this dish ideal for vegetarians and vegans.
- High Fiber Content: They are packed with fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy gut.
- Micronutrient Powerhouse: Chickpeas are a great source of essential vitamins and minerals, including iron, magnesium, and B vitamins.
- Rice:
- Energy Booster: Being a primary source of carbohydrates, rice provides quick energy, making it a staple for many cultures around the world.
- Low in Fat: Rice is inherently low in fat, making it a healthy addition to any meal.
- Essential Minerals: Rice offers essential minerals like selenium and manganese, which help in various bodily functions.
- Dairy-free Butter & Olive Oil:
- These ingredients not only add richness to the pilaf but are also a source of healthy fats, vital for brain health and maintaining stable energy levels.
- Shallots:
- Shallots contain antioxidants and are known to have anti-inflammatory properties. They’re also a good source of vitamins and minerals like vitamin A, B vitamins, and potassium.
- Turmeric:
- This golden spice is renowned for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, primarily attributed to the compound curcumin.
- Za’atar:
- A blend of herbs, sesame seeds, and sumac, za’atar is not only flavorful but also packed with antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins.
- Lemon:
- Loaded with vitamin C, lemons support immune function and provide a burst of refreshing tanginess to the dish.
- Cilantro & Basil:
- Both these herbs are a treasure trove of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Cilantro is known for its detoxifying properties, while basil adds a hint of sweetness and has anti-inflammatory benefits.
Easy To Make Pilaf is the Perfect Side Dish
The Easy Chickpea Rice Pilaf, with its symphony of flavors and wealth of nutrients, is a testament to the fact that healthy eating doesn’t mean compromising on taste. As you dive into the aromatic world of this dish, let every spoonful remind you of the Mediterranean’s culinary charm. Celebrate the magic of simple ingredients coming together to create a dish that’s both a treat to the palate and a boon to your health.
- Start by sauteeing your shallots, then mix in your cooked rice, chickpeas, and spiced.
- Mix well and let the rice begin to brown. Deglaze with lemon juice.
- Add salt and pepper to taste then transfer to a bowl and mix with fresh herbs!
The Easy Chickpea Rice Pilaf, with its symphony of flavors and wealth of nutrients, is a testament to the fact that healthy eating doesn’t mean compromising on taste. As you dive into the aromatic world of this dish, let every spoonful remind you of the Mediterranean’s culinary charm. Celebrate the magic of simple ingredients coming together to create a dish that’s both a treat to the palate and a boon to your health.
Serve with Herb + Spinach Chopped Salad and Marinated Chicken for a balanced, simple and delicious dinner.
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Easy Chickpea Rice Pilaf: A Symphony of Flavors and Nutrients
- Prep Time: 5
- Cook Time: 10
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
As you dive into the aromatic world of this dish, let every spoonful remind you of the Mediterranean’s culinary charm.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon dairy-free butter (or regular butter)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 shallots, minced
- 1 teaspoon minced fresh thyme
- 2 cups cooked rice (I use leftover basmati rice)
- 2 cups cooked chickpeas (I like these)
- 2 teaspoons turmeric
- 2 teaspoons za’atar
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cracked pepper
- 1/4 bunch cilantro, minced
- 6 basil leaves, chiffonade
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the dairy-free butter and olive oil. Once hot, incorporate the shallots and thyme, cooking until they’re fragrant and lightly browned.
- Introduce the cooked rice and chickpeas to the skillet. Sprinkle in the za’atar and turmeric, ensuring they’re well combined. Continue cooking until the rice starts getting toasty, making sure to stir frequently.
- Deglaze the skillet with the lemon juice, releasing any tasty bits stuck at the bottom.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper according to your taste preference.
- Transfer the rice mixture to a bowl and gently fold in the freshly minced cilantro and chiffonaded basil leaves.
Recipe Notes:
- Use any herbs you like! The more the merrier!
- Using leftover rice here is so easy!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 recipe
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 10g
Heather says
This recipe couldn’t have come at a better time. I’ve recently decided I need to stop “obsessing” about what I can and cannot eat and start just focusing on whole foods that are nourishing and filling. This was amazing!!! It was quick, easy, and oh so flavorful!