Parmesan Rice and Pasta Pilaf

Parmesan Rice and Pasta Pilaf Recipe - Italian Cuisine

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Parmesan Rice and Pasta Pilaf is a delicious and savory side dish that combines the flavors of pasta, rice, and parmesan cheese. This recipe is easy to make and is perfect for serving alongside your favorite main dishes.

History

The origins of this recipe are not entirely clear, but pilaf dishes have been enjoyed for centuries in various cultures around the world. The combination of rice and pasta in a pilaf dish is a popular choice for many home cooks and chefs alike.

Ingredients

2 tbsp of olive oil
0.5 cup of vermicelli pasta
2 tbsp of onion
1 cup of long grain rice
1.25 cups of chicken broth
1.25 cups of water
0.25 tsp of white pepper
1 bay leaf
2 tbsp of grated parmesan cheese

How to prepare

In a large skillet, heat the oil.
Sauté the vermicelli and onion until they turn golden brown (about two to four minutes) over medium-high heat.
Drain off the excess oil.
Add the rice, stock, water, pepper, and bay leaf.
Cover and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes.
Fluff the rice with a fork.
Cover and let it stand for five to 10 minutes.
Remove the bay leaf.
Sprinkle with cheese and serve immediately.

Variations

Add cooked vegetables such as peas, carrots, or bell peppers for added color and flavor.
Substitute different types of cheese such as cheddar or mozzarella for a different twist on the dish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to sauté the vermicelli and onion until they are golden brown to add depth of flavor to the dish.

- Fluffing the rice with a fork after cooking will help to separate the grains and create a light and fluffy texture.

- Sprinkling the parmesan cheese on top just before serving will add a rich and savory flavor to the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Parmesan Rice and Pasta Pilaf as a side dish alongside grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Cooking Techniques

The key cooking techniques for this recipe include sautéing, simmering, and fluffing the rice with a fork.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have vermicelli pasta, you can use any other type of pasta such as spaghetti or angel hair pasta.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the rice and pasta pilaf ahead of time and reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the dish with fresh herbs such as parsley or basil for a pop of color and flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Parmesan Rice and Pasta Pilaf with a glass of white wine such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc for a delicious meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Parmesan Rice and Pasta Pilaf contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Parmesan Rice and Pasta Pilaf contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Parmesan Rice and Pasta Pilaf contains approximately 8 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Parmesan Rice and Pasta Pilaf contains approximately 6 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is a good source of iron, calcium, and vitamin A.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (parmesan cheese) and gluten (pasta), so it may not be suitable for those with dairy or gluten allergies.

Summary

Parmesan Rice and Pasta Pilaf is a balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, along with essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Parmesan Rice and Pasta Pilaf is a flavorful and satisfying side dish that is easy to make and perfect for serving with a variety of main dishes. Enjoy the combination of pasta, rice, and parmesan cheese in this delicious recipe.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a happy memory that brings a smile to my face every time I think about it. It was a warm summer day, and I had gone to visit my dear friend Isabella for our weekly coffee date. Isabella was a wonderful cook, and every time I visited her, she would always have something delicious simmering on the stove.

On this particular day, the aroma of garlic and Parmesan filled her cozy kitchen, and I couldn't help but ask her what she was making. Isabella laughed and told me she was making her famous Parmesan Rice and Pasta Pilaf. She explained that it was a simple yet flavorful dish that her grandmother had passed down to her, and she was happy to share the recipe with me.

As I watched her cook, I was amazed at how effortlessly she moved around the kitchen, adding a pinch of this and a dash of that. It was like she was conducting a symphony, with the pots and pans as her instruments. I was mesmerized by her skill and expertise, and I knew I had to learn how to make this dish for myself.

After we enjoyed our meal together, Isabella sat me down at her kitchen table and began to write out the recipe for me. She explained each step in detail, from sautéing the onions and garlic to toasting the rice and pasta before adding the broth. It was like a culinary lesson, and I soaked up every word she said, eager to recreate this delicious dish in my own kitchen.

The next day, I gathered all the ingredients I needed and set to work on making the Parmesan Rice and Pasta Pilaf. I followed Isabella's instructions carefully, taking my time to sauté the onions and garlic until they were fragrant and golden brown. I toasted the rice and pasta until they were crispy and nutty, adding a depth of flavor to the dish.

As the pilaf simmered on the stove, the kitchen filled with the mouthwatering scent of Parmesan and herbs. I couldn't wait to taste the final product, eager to see if I had done justice to Isabella's recipe. When I finally took my first bite, I was transported to a world of savory goodness, the flavors dancing on my tongue in perfect harmony.

From that day on, Parmesan Rice and Pasta Pilaf became a regular dish in my cooking repertoire. I would make it for family gatherings, dinner parties, and even just for myself on a quiet evening at home. Each time I cooked it, I would think of Isabella and the special bond we shared over our love of food and cooking.

Over the years, I have made a few tweaks to the recipe, adding my own personal touch here and there. Sometimes I would throw in some roasted vegetables or grilled chicken to make it a complete meal. Other times, I would switch up the herbs and spices to create a new flavor profile.

But no matter how many variations I made, the essence of Isabella's original recipe always shone through. The creamy Parmesan, the nutty rice and pasta, the aromatic herbs – it was a winning combination that never failed to impress.

Now, as I sit in my kitchen, preparing a batch of Parmesan Rice and Pasta Pilaf for a family dinner, I can't help but feel grateful for the day I discovered this recipe. It has brought me joy, satisfaction, and a sense of connection to my dear friend Isabella. And as I take a bite of the pilaf, savoring the familiar flavors that I have come to love, I know that this recipe will always hold a special place in my heart.