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Herbed Quinoa Pilaf with Almonds and Apricots: The Ultimate Healthy Side Dish

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Herbed Quinoa Pilaf with Almonds and Apricots is a wholesome Mediterranean-inspired side dish featuring fluffy quinoa, fresh herbs, toasted almonds, sweet dried apricots, and bright citrus flavors.

  • Author: Emily
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped
  • 1/2 cup sliced almonds, toasted
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped
  • 2 green onions, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup pistachios (optional)
  • 1/4 cup raisins (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons cilantro (optional)
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse quinoa thoroughly under cold water.
  2. Add quinoa and vegetable broth to a saucepan.
  3. Bring to a boil.
  4. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
  5. Remove from heat and let stand for 5 minutes.
  6. Fluff quinoa with a fork.
  7. Toast almonds in a dry skillet until lightly golden.
  8. Chop apricots and prepare herbs.
  9. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, salt, and pepper.
  10. Transfer quinoa to a large mixing bowl.
  11. Add apricots, almonds, green onions, parsley, and mint.
  12. Pour dressing over the quinoa mixture.
  13. Toss gently to combine.
  14. Add optional ingredients if desired.
  15. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  16. Serve warm, room temperature, or chilled.

Notes

  • Always rinse quinoa before cooking to remove bitterness.
  • Use broth instead of water for more flavor.
  • Toast almonds for extra crunch and richness.
  • Fresh herbs provide the best flavor.
  • Store leftovers refrigerated for up to 4 days.
  • Excellent for meal prep.
  • Can be served warm or cold.
  • Pistachios make a great substitute for almonds.
  • Add feta cheese for a richer version.
  • Perfect for holiday meals and potlucks.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://recipeshots.com/herbed-quinoa-pilaf-with-almonds-and-apricots/