Pilaf

Can be prepared in less than 45 minutes.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

A versatile side dish that goes well with chicken, fish or pork. The recipe doubles or triples easily to feed a family, guests, or to freeze for use another time.

Serve with: Warmed flatbread. Dessert: Vanilla pudding with sliced mango.

An Armenian dish that's the perfect accompaniment to roast turkey, goose or ham. This version is dressed up for the holidays with golden saffron and studded with dried fruit and nuts.

The mix of flavors in this side dish is great with broiled lamb chops or roast chicken.

Active time: 15 min Start to finish: 35 min

Using the risotto method with long-grain rice yields rich flavor and light texture.

Wheat berries, minimally processed grains of whole wheat, are sometimes marketed as hard wheat.

Rice pilaf can be made traditionally, with basmati rice, or with regular long-grain white rice. For a real treat, garnish the pilaf with shredded coconut, raisins and chopped green onions.

The rice-shaped pasta orzo is sometimes labeled riso or rosamarina.