Dairy-Free Classic Pilaf

Elevate your side dish game with this Dairy-Free Classic Pilaf, a fragrant and fluffy rice recipe that’s both simple and satisfying. Made with long-grain white rice toasted in olive oil, this dish is infused with the warm, savory flavors of sautéed onion, garlic, and a delicate bay leaf. Simmered to perfection in vegetable broth, it’s a 100% dairy-free option that doesn’t skimp on richness or depth. A bright finish of fresh parsley and zesty lemon zest adds a refreshing twist, making it the perfect accompaniment to grilled vegetables, roasted meats, or plant-based mains. Ready in just 35 minutes, this versatile pilaf is ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions, offering wholesome comfort without any dairy.

Nutriscore Rating: 70/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1.5 cups long-grain white rice
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 cups vegetable broth
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch, then drain well.

Step 2

Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.

Step 3

Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 4

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 5

Add the drained rice to the pan, stirring continuously for 2-3 minutes until the rice is lightly toasted and coated with oil.

Step 6

Pour in the vegetable broth, and add the bay leaf, salt, and black pepper.

Step 7

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid.

Step 8

Simmer the rice for 15-18 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.

Step 9

Remove the pan from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes with the lid on.

Step 10

Fluff the rice gently with a fork, remove the bay leaf, and stir in the chopped parsley and lemon zest.

Step 11

Serve the pilaf hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1177.3g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1097.4

Total Fat 49.2g	0%
Saturated Fat 8.0g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 6.1g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 4052.0mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 142.5g	0%
Dietary Fiber 12.8g	0%
Total Sugars 15.4g
Protein 22.6g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 194.1mg	0%
Iron 8.4mg	0%
Potassium 1650.0mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 40.1%

Protein: 8.2%

Carbs: 51.7%