Some people might be surprised to hear that I approve of culinary shortcuts … at least on occasion! However, I am particular about what those quick picks are. For me, it still needs to be 100% “real.” One fast fix that I’m a fan of is 90-second brown rice. That sure beats the 50 minutes that this whole grain food can take. But then I take this fast side and stir simple yet lovely accents into it. Here, it makes it seem like you spent an hour preparing an enticing dish, not just a few minutes!

The Cara Cara, which is also known as “the pink orange” or a red navel orange, has ruby red pulp like a pink grapefruit but tastes extra sweet, providing fresh flair for this pilaf. The almonds and pistachios balance its sweetness with distinctive flavor, texture, and overall appeal. The result … an exceptionally nice rice. Enjoy a bowl of this cara cara pilaf with almonds & pistachios soon!

cara cara pilaf with almonds & pistachios

Makes 2 servings: 3/4 rounded cup each

Ingredients

• 1 (7.4-ounce) Lundberg Organic Short Grain Brown Rice Heat & Eat Bowl or 1 1/2 cups cooked brown rice
• 1/4 cup freshly-squeezed Cara Cara or navel orange juice
• 1/2 teaspoon grated Cara Cara or navel orange peel (zest)
• 1 1/2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil (optional)
• 1 scallion, green and white parts, very thinly sliced or minced
• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt, or to taste
• 2 tablespoons sliced natural almonds, pan-toasted
• 20 shelled lightly salted roasted pistachios

Directions

1. Prepare the rice according to package directions.
2. Transfer to a medium bowl and immediately stir in the orange juice, zest, olive oil (if using) scallion, and salt while rice is steaming hot. Stir in the almonds and pistachios, and serve

Per serving (without oil): 230 calories, 7g total fat, 1g saturated fat, 0g trans fat, 0mg cholesterol, 320mg sodium, 39g total carbohydrate, 4g dietary fiber, 4g sugars, 5g protein

Jackie’s Culinary Nutrition Tips!

• It’s okay to take culinary shortcuts from time to time; but when you do, go natural—like choosing brown instead of white rice
• Add interest to plain picks by choosing unique produce when available and fits your budget, like cara cara orange instead of a typical navel orange
• Instead of adding richness by way of greasy butter, consider skipping it and going nutty by adding nuts, like almonds and pistachios–my two favorite culinary nuts (or use extra-virgin olive oil + nuts)
• Add a pop of color to an otherwise bland looking dish by using scallion in place of yellow onion, when appropriate