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Herbed Quinoa Pilaf with Almonds and Apricots: Healthy Mediterranean Favorite

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Herbed Quinoa Pilaf with Almonds and Apricots is a nutritious Mediterranean-inspired dish featuring fluffy quinoa, toasted almonds, sweet dried apricots, fresh herbs, and lemon. Perfect as a healthy side dish, vegetarian meal, or meal-prep recipe.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped
  • 1/2 cup sliced almonds, toasted
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Rinse quinoa thoroughly under cold water.
  2. Toast almonds in a dry skillet until golden.
  3. Heat olive oil in a saucepan and sauté onion until soft.
  4. Add garlic and cook briefly.
  5. Stir in quinoa and coat with aromatics.
  6. Add vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
  7. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
  8. Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes.
  9. Fluff quinoa with a fork.
  10. Stir in apricots, almonds, parsley, and mint.
  11. Add lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  12. Toss gently and serve warm or chilled.

Notes

  • Rinse quinoa to remove bitterness.
  • Toast almonds for deeper flavor.
  • Use broth instead of water for richer taste.
  • Fresh herbs provide the best flavor.
  • Can be served warm, room temperature, or cold.
  • Stores well for meal prep.
  • Add chickpeas for extra protein.
  • Substitute cranberries for apricots if desired.
  • Freeze for up to 2 months.
  • Great for holiday meals and potlucks.

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