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Easy Chickpea and Rice Pilaf Recipe 5-Ingredient Pantry Dinner Idea

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A quick, simple, and comforting chickpea and rice pilaf made with pantry staples, perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. This flavorful dish features toasted spices and a bright lemon finish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (200 g) long-grain white rice
  • 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped (yellow or white)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 2 cups (480 ml) vegetable broth
  • Salt to taste (start with 3/4 teaspoon)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Rinse the rice under cold running water until the water runs clear. Drain and set aside.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent and soft, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Sprinkle ground cumin into the pan and stir constantly for about 1 minute to toast the spices gently.
  5. Add the rinsed rice and drained chickpeas to the skillet. Toss to coat evenly with oil and spices.
  6. Pour in vegetable broth and add salt to taste. Bring to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
  7. Reduce heat to low, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 15 minutes without lifting the lid.
  8. Turn off heat and let the pilaf rest, covered, for 5 minutes.
  9. Remove lid and fluff the rice and chickpeas with a fork. Stir in fresh lemon juice and adjust seasoning if needed.
  10. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired and serve warm.

Notes

Rinsing the rice removes excess starch for fluffier texture. Use a tight-fitting lid to trap steam and cook rice evenly. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking to keep rice fluffy. Toast cumin with onions for deeper flavor. Fresh lemon juice at the end brightens the dish. For texture contrast, toast chickpeas separately and add on top before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: chickpea pilaf, rice pilaf, easy dinner, pantry meal, vegan recipe, quick dinner, healthy pilaf, chickpeas and rice

Find it online: https://lumalunch.com/easy-chickpea-and-rice-pilaf-recipe-5-ingredient-pantry-dinner-idea/