Broccoli Parmesan Rice Pilaf

Put in as much broccoli as you possibly can into this delicious side dish.

2 cups broccoli cut into small pieces

1/2 cup carrot matchsticks 

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup white rice (I used Jasmine here)

1/4 cup whole wheat orzo

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
toasted sesame seeds to garnish, I used brown and black

Sauté the rice and orzo with a dash of canola oil in a small pot for about 5 minutes, stirring constantly.  Add 2 cups water and bring to a gentle boil.  Stir, salt lightly, cover and set to a very low heat.  Cook until the pilaf has absorbed all the water.  When cooked, spread out on a large rimmed baking sheet to allow rice mixture to dry out a bit.

In the meantime, sauté the broccoli and carrot in a dash of olive oil in a skillet.  After 5 minutes, add the garlic and cook another 2-3 minutes.  

Toss the pilaf and the veggies together in a large non-stick skillet.  Heat through.

Add the cheese and heat through once more.  Turn pilaf into serving bowl and garnish with sesame seeds.

Serves 4 as a side.