Rice and Orzo Pilaf

Ingredients

• Basic
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• ½ cup orzo
• ½ cup onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup uncooked white rice
• 2 cups broth
• Fancy
• 2 lbs (1 head) cauliflower, cored and cut into 1/2 “ florets
• 3 oz pitted dates, chopped (½ cup)
• ⅓ cup shelled pistachios
• 1½ tsp grated ginger
• ¼ tsp ground cumin
• ½ cup chopped fresh mint
• 1½ tbsp lemon juice

Method

1. Saute orzo in olive oil until golden brown
2. Stir in onion and saute until onion becomes translucent
3. Add garlic and rice. Saute for 1 minute
4. Add broth. Simmer at medium-low for 20-25 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed
5. Let stand covered for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
6. Saute cauliflower in olive oil until soft and brown, 10-15 min
7. Combine cooked rice, cauliflower, dates, pistachios, spices and lemon juice