Rice Pilaf with Fresh Dill Walnuts and Raisins

Elevate your side dish game with this vibrant and aromatic Rice Pilaf with Fresh Dill, Walnuts, and Raisins. Fluffy basmati rice is gently toasted and simmered in a fragrant blend of cinnamon and vegetable stock, creating the perfect canvas for layers of flavor. Toasted walnuts add a nutty crunch, while golden raisins provide a subtle sweetness that complements the tangy brightness of fresh dill. A final garnish of lemon juice ties everything together for a dish that's as versatile as it is delightful. Ideal as a side for roasted meats or vegetarian mains, this pilaf is ready in under 35 minutes and makes any meal feel special. Perfect for entertaining or an easy weeknight dinner, this recipe combines timeless ingredients with a modern twist for an unforgettable dining experience.

Nutriscore Rating: 66/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1.5 cups basmati rice
• 3 cups water or vegetable stock
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 bay leaf
• 0.25 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 0.5 cups golden raisins
• 0.5 cups walnuts, roughly chopped
• 0.25 cups fresh dill, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoons salt
• 0.5 teaspoons black pepper, freshly ground
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and helps keep the grains separate. Drain thoroughly and set aside.

Step 2

Heat the olive oil and butter in a medium-sized pot over medium heat.

Step 3

Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until soft and translucent.

Step 4

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.

Step 5

Add the drained rice to the pot, stirring frequently for 2-3 minutes to lightly toast the grains.

Step 6

Stir in the water or vegetable stock, bay leaf, ground cinnamon, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

Step 7

Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is fully absorbed.

Step 8

While the rice cooks, toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until they are fragrant and lightly browned. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 9

When the rice is done, turn off the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. This allows the steam to finish cooking the rice and makes it fluffier.

Step 10

Remove the lid and discard the bay leaf. Gently fluff the rice with a fork.

Step 11

Fold in the golden raisins, toasted walnuts, and chopped fresh dill. Mix well to evenly distribute the ingredients.

Step 12

Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt or pepper, if needed.

Step 13

Serve warm, garnished with a drizzle of lemon juice (if desired).

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1393.0g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1466.5

Total Fat 83.4g	0%
Saturated Fat 15.7g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.7g
Cholesterol 31mg	0%
Sodium 5030.5mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 173.5g	0%
Dietary Fiber 18.6g	0%
Total Sugars 63.4g
Protein 28.8g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 516.2mg	0%
Iron 15.3mg	0%
Potassium 2236.7mg	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: 48.1%

Protein: 7.4%

Carbs: 44.5%