Orzo and Rice Pilaf Thitono Pilafi

Elevate your side dish game with this rich and aromatic Orzo and Rice Pilaf, or Thitono Pilafi, a Mediterranean-inspired recipe perfect for any occasion. Featuring toasty golden orzo pasta, tender long-grain rice, and a fragrant blend of cinnamon and oregano, this dish combines layers of flavor in every bite. Cooked in a savory broth and finished with fresh parsley and optional lemon wedges for a bright, zesty touch, this pilaf pairs beautifully with roasted meats, grilled vegetables, or can be enjoyed as a comforting vegetarian option. Ready in just 40 minutes, it's an elegant yet simple way to bring warm, wholesome flavors to your table.

Nutriscore Rating: 65/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:40 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 0.5 cup orzo pasta
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2.5 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian)
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic cloves, minced
• 0.25 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 4 wedges lemon wedges (optional, for serving)

Directions

Step 1

Heat the olive oil and butter in a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat.

Step 2

Add the orzo pasta to the pan and toast it for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until golden brown and fragrant.

Step 3

Stir in the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.

Step 4

Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 5

Pour in the rice and stir to coat it in the oil and butter mixture.

Step 6

Add the ground cinnamon, oregano, salt, and black pepper, stirring until the spices are fully incorporated.

Step 7

Slowly pour in the chicken (or vegetable) broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer while stirring occasionally.

Step 8

Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice and orzo are tender.

Step 9

Remove the pan from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 10

Fluff the pilaf with a fork, gently stir in the chopped parsley, and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 11

Serve warm, garnished with additional parsley and lemon wedges on the side for a burst of brightness, if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1134.1g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1087.0

Total Fat 44.0g	0%
Saturated Fat 11.8g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.7g
Cholesterol 31mg	0%
Sodium 4527.0mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 153.8g	0%
Dietary Fiber 11.0g	0%
Total Sugars 9.5g
Protein 24.2g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 149.7mg	0%
Iron 8.1mg	0%
Potassium 534.4mg	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: 35.7%

Protein: 8.7%

Carbs: 55.5%