Delia Smith Pesto Rice Recipe for Everyday Gourmet Dining

I love collecting cookbooks and cooking at home. Delia Smith’s “Vegetarian Collection” is one of my favorites. It’s full of elegant recipes that are still easy to make. Today, I’m putting my own twist on one of her recipes. I’m making a pesto rice dish. It’s simple but feels fancy, just like Delia’s style. It’s perfect for anyone who loves to cook.

Why You’ll Be Glad You Tried This Recipe

You’ll be thrilled you tried this recipe because it’s the perfect blend of simplicity and elegance. Not only does it introduce a burst of fresh, herby flavors to your table, but it also requires minimal effort for such a sophisticated outcome. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress with its beautiful presentation and gourmet taste. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be adapted to any dietary preference, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Give it a try, and it might just become a new favorite in your culinary repertoire.

How To Make Delia Pesto Rice Recipe Overview

This pesto rice recipe is a testament to the beauty of combining simple, fresh ingredients to create a dish that is both flavorful and visually appealing. Perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for dinner, it serves about 4 to 6 people and takes approximately 30 minutes from start to finish. The aromatic pesto, blended with creamy Arborio rice, creates a comforting yet sophisticated dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

For the Pesto:

• 1.5 large cloves of garlic, crushed
• 3 oz (85 g) fresh basil leaves
• 1.5 tablespoons pine nuts
• 3/4 teaspoon sea salt
• 1.5 oz (42.5 g) fresh grated Parmesan cheese
• Extra olive oil as needed for consistency

For the Rice:

• 1.5 cups Arborio rice
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1.5 teaspoons sea salt
• 3 cups vegetable stock
• Juice of 1.5 lemons
• Fresh ground black pepper to taste

Garnish:

• 6 green onions, finely sliced
• Fresh basil leaves, torn or bruised
• Fresh Parmesan cheese, pared into shavings

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pesto: In a food processor, blend the basil leaves, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan, and sea salt until smooth. Gradually add olive oil until you achieve a thick but pourable consistency. Set aside.
2. Cook the Rice: In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Arborio rice and stir for 2 minutes until the grains are well-coated and start to turn translucent. Gradually add the vegetable stock, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring constantly until the liquid is absorbed before adding more. This process should take about 18-20 minutes.
3. Combine: Once the rice is cooked and creamy, remove from heat. Stir in the pesto, lemon juice, and season with sea salt and fresh ground pepper to taste.
4. Serve: Spoon the pesto rice into serving dishes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, sliced green onions, and shavings of Parmesan cheese.

Also Read: Puttanesca Delia Smith Recipe

Nutritional Value (Per Serving)

Calories: 250-300

Protein: 8-10g

Fat: 14-18g

Saturated: 3-4g

Carbs: 28-32g

Fiber: 2-4g

FAQs

Can I use a different type of rice?

Absolutely, you can switch it up! While Arborio rice gives a creamy texture, you’re not limited to it. Feel free to use any short-grain rice you have on hand. Even quinoa can be a great alternative. Each option changes the texture a bit, but the dish will still be delicious. It’s all about using what you have and making it work for you. Enjoy experimenting!

Can I add protein to this dish?

Yes, adding protein is a great idea to make this dish more filling. Grilled chicken or shrimp are perfect choices. They blend well with the pesto flavor. If you prefer plant-based options, try adding chickpeas. They’re hearty and nutritious. Simply mix your chosen protein into the rice before serving. It’s an easy way to turn this side dish into a main course. Enjoy your meal!

Is pesto a healthy fat?

Yes, pesto can be considered a source of healthy fats. It’s made with olive oil, which is rich in monounsaturated fats. These are good for your heart. Pesto also contains pine nuts, adding more healthy fats and nutrients. While it’s high in fat, it’s the kind that benefits your health when eaten in moderation. So, enjoying pesto in your meals can be a tasty way to include healthy fats in your diet.

Is pesto better hot or cold?

Pesto can be enjoyed both hot and cold, depending on the dish. When mixed with hot pasta or spread on warm toast, it releases its aromatic flavors, making the meal comforting. Cold, it’s refreshing and bold, perfect in salads or as a dip. There’s no right or wrong here. It’s all about what you prefer. Try it both ways and see which one you like best. It’s versatile and delicious either way!

How is pesto traditionally eaten?

Traditionally, pesto comes from Italy, where it’s mainly used with pasta. People mix it into cooked pasta, giving it a rich, herby flavor. It’s also spread on bread or used in soups like minestrone. In Italy, they often add it to potato and green bean dishes too. The key is its fresh, bold taste, which enhances simple ingredients. So, while pasta is the classic pairing, pesto’s versatility shines in various traditional and modern dishes.

Conclusion

This pesto rice recipe is a beautiful example of how simple ingredients can be transformed into a dish that feels gourmet yet is completely achievable at home. It embodies the elegance and approachability of Delia Smith’s recipes, making it perfect for those looking to impress with their culinary skills without the need for extensive preparation or exotic ingredients. Enjoy the harmony of flavors and the joy of cooking something truly special for your loved ones.