Pesto Rice

Pesto Rice is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines fluffy rice with a fresh basil pesto, creating a delightful meal that's both comforting and satisfying. Perfect as a side or main dish, it brings a taste of Italy to your table with a Kosher twist.

Ingredients

• Long-grain rice - 1 cup
• Fresh basil - 1 cup packed
• Garlic - 2 cloves
• Pine nuts - 2 tablespoons
• Parmesan cheese - 1/4 cup, grated
• Olive oil - 1/4 cup
• Lemon juice - 1 tablespoon
• Salt - 1/2 teaspoon
• Black pepper - 1/4 teaspoon
• Water - 2 cups

Steps

1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then drain.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice and 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes until the rice is tender and water is absorbed.
3. While the rice is cooking, prepare the pesto. In a food processor, combine the fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth, scraping down the sides as necessary.
4. Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and transfer it to a large bowl.
5. Add the prepared pesto to the rice and mix until the rice is evenly coated.
6. Serve warm, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and pine nuts if desired.

Nutrition

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 12 g
• Carbs: 60 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 320 mg
• Cholesterol: 10 mg
• Total Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
• Water: 0.5 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in healthy fats from olive oil and pine nuts.
• High in vitamins and antioxidants from fresh basil.

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