Are you looking for a delightful and authentic Greek rice pilaf recipe that will transport you to the heart of Greece with every bite? Look no further! Greek rice pilaf, also known as “Horiatiki Rice,” is a flavorful and nutritious dish that combines the rich flavors of olive oil, herbs, and aromatic ingredients. In this article, we will share with you a step-by-step guide to making this classic Greek rice pilaf, ensuring that you can enjoy this delicious meal in the comfort of your own home.

Greek rice pilaf is a staple in Greek cuisine, often served as a side dish or as a main course. It is made with short-grain rice, which is cooked in a combination of olive oil, stock, and a variety of fresh herbs and vegetables. The result is a dish that is both comforting and elegant, with a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

To make this Greek rice pilaf, you will need the following ingredients:

– 1 cup of short-grain rice
– 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup of green bell peppers, diced
– 1/2 cup of red bell peppers, diced
– 1/2 cup of zucchini, diced
– 1/2 cup of yellow squash, diced
– 1/2 cup of green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup of red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup of red wine vinegar
– 1/2 cup of chicken or vegetable stock
– 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Now that you have all the ingredients, let’s dive into the cooking process:

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it is translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in the chopped tomatoes, bell peppers, zucchini, yellow squash, and green beans. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables start to soften.
4. Add the red onion and cook for another 2 minutes.
5. Pour in the red wine vinegar and chicken or vegetable stock, and bring the mixture to a boil.
6. Add the rice, dried oregano, and dried thyme. Stir well, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a lid.
7. Let the rice cook for about 20 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
8. Once the rice is cooked, remove the pot from the heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes.
9. Fluff the rice with a fork, season with salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with chopped parsley.

And there you have it! Your homemade Greek rice pilaf is ready to be enjoyed. Serve it alongside grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or as a side dish for a taste of Greece in every bite. Buon appetito!