Pesto Rice and Vegetables Recipe ๐ฟ๐๐ฅฆ๐ฅ
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6
Description:
Indulge in the delightful fusion of garlic, Parmesan, and basil, creating a luscious puree that envelops tender broccoli, carrots, and perfectly cooked rice in this effortlessly quick and wholesome recipe. Bursting with flavors and nutrients, this dish is a testament to simplicity and taste, perfect for a busy weeknight or a leisurely weekend meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups fresh basil leaves
- 1 garlic clove
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 1/2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 medium carrot, sliced
- 3 cups cooked white rice
- Salt to taste
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 172.1
- Fat: 4.9g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Cholesterol: 4.9mg
- Sodium: 104.3mg
- Carbohydrates: 26.9g
- Fiber: 3.1g
- Sugar: 0.9g
- Protein: 5.7g
Instructions:
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Prepare the Basil-Garlic Puree:
- Begin by finely mincing the fresh basil leaves and garlic clove.
- In a blender or food processor, combine the minced basil and garlic with the grated Parmesan cheese and olive oil.
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Blend to Perfection:
- Pulse the ingredients in the blender or food processor until they form a smooth and vibrant puree, ensuring that all the flavors meld together harmoniously.
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Prep the Vegetables:
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and lightly spray it with nonstick cooking spray. Alternatively, you can use a knob of butter or a drizzle of olive oil for added flavor.
- Add the broccoli florets and sliced carrots to the skillet, and cook them until they reach your desired level of tenderness, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
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Incorporate the Rice and Basil Mixture:
- Once the vegetables are cooked to perfection, stir in the cooked white rice, ensuring that it’s evenly distributed throughout the skillet.
- Gradually add the prepared basil-garlic puree to the skillet, gently folding it into the rice and vegetables until everything is coated in the flavorful mixture.
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Season to Taste:
- Sprinkle salt over the dish according to your preference, adjusting the seasoning to suit your taste buds. The salt will enhance the flavors of the basil, garlic, and Parmesan, elevating the dish to new heights of deliciousness.
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Serve and Enjoy:
- Transfer the Pesto Rice and Vegetables to a serving dish, allowing the vibrant colors and enticing aromas to tantalize your senses.
- Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese or freshly chopped basil leaves, if desired, for a touch of elegance and freshness.
- Serve hot as a standalone meal or as a delightful side dish alongside your favorite protein.
- Gather your loved ones around the table, and savor each bite of this delectable creation together. ๐ฝ๏ธโจ
Pro Tips:
- For a nutty twist, add a handful of toasted pine nuts or almonds to the basil-garlic puree before blending, imparting a delightful crunch and depth of flavor to the dish.
- Customize the recipe to your liking by incorporating your favorite seasonal vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes, for an extra burst of freshness and nutrition.
- Experiment with different varieties of rice, such as brown rice, jasmine rice, or wild rice, to add complexity and texture to the dish, catering to your personal preferences and dietary needs.
Embrace the simplicity and versatility of this Pesto Rice and Vegetables recipe, allowing its vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients to nourish your body and soul with each delightful bite. Enjoy the culinary journey and the joy it brings to your kitchen and dining table alike! ๐๐ฟ๐ฅ
