Saffron Rice Pilaf with Red Peppers Toasted Almonds

Infused with the warm, golden hue of saffron, this Saffron Rice Pilaf with Red Peppers and Toasted Almonds is a vibrant and flavor-packed side dish that's as beautiful as it is delicious. Made with fragrant basmati rice, tender sautéed red bell peppers, and a hint of garlic and cumin, this dish brings layers of aromatic richness to your table. The crowning touches of toasted slivered almonds and fresh parsley add a delightful crunch and herbaceous brightness, making it the perfect accompaniment to roast chicken, grilled seafood, or your favorite Mediterranean-inspired meals. Quick to prepare in just 40 minutes, this elegant, gluten-free rice pilaf is a crowd-pleaser for both weeknight dinners and festive gatherings.

Nutriscore Rating: 70/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:40 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1.5 cups basmati rice
• 3 cups water
• 0.25 teaspoons saffron threads
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.25 teaspoons black pepper
• 0.5 cups slivered almonds
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the basmati rice under cold running water until the water runs clear. Set aside to drain.

Step 2

Place the saffron threads in 2 tablespoons of warm water and let them steep for about 10 minutes.

Step 3

In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent.

Step 4

Stir in the red bell pepper and cook for another 2-3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and ground cumin, and cook for 1 more minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant.

Step 5

Add the basmati rice to the saucepan and stir to coat the grains evenly with the oil and spices.

Step 6

Pour in the 3 cups of water, saffron mixture (with the soaking liquid), salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.

Step 7

Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

Step 8

While the rice is cooking, toast the slivered almonds. Heat a small dry skillet over medium heat, add the almonds, and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until they are golden and fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 9

When the rice is done, fluff it gently with a fork. Transfer to a serving dish and sprinkle with the toasted almonds and chopped parsley.

Step 10

Serve warm as a side dish or enjoy on its own!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1370.6g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1098.0

Total Fat 63.6g	0%
Saturated Fat 7.2g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.7g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 2403.9mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 111.0g	0%
Dietary Fiber 13.4g	0%
Total Sugars 12.2g
Protein 28.4g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 303.0mg	0%
Iron 10.0mg	0%
Potassium 1154.6mg	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: 50.7%

Protein: 10.1%

Carbs: 39.3%