Looking back at which of my posts received the most likes, I notice that my readers tend to approve the heartier recipes. The “healthier” recipes do not do as well. Surprising no one, the pasta and dessert recipes are always favored more than vegetables and lighter fare. I know there are a lot of health-conscious bloggers out there, but it seems like folks read my blog to find meals that will leave guests feeling truly satiated.
This is true in my own home as well. For example, when I prepared this pilaf dish, I made some corn on the cob “just in case.” Lo and behold, my family turned up their noses and went for the corn. Not many Moms would make two side dishes, but because of the blog, I have to make the recipe anyway. I usually end up sending the uneaten food to my husband’s office for lunch. They are happy to eat any leftovers, and I like to get their feedback. If they don’t approve, I don’t post the recipe.
If I get positive feedback there, I declare it a crowd pleaser and it belongs to a select group of recipes that I use when I’m entertaining. Stick to the tried-and-true recipes for a party or gathering and I swear you’ll get rave reviews every time.
Last week, I hosted a friend visiting from Tennessee. When we went to the grocery store together, she was amazed at all the healthy choices available to us. In her hometown, there are very little healthy product choices and probably no one would buy them even if they were offered. I was absolutely gobsmacked, but given my readership, perhaps I shouldn’t have been so surprised that folks don’t go for what’s best for them.
This recipe splits the difference. If you’re going to have pasta, whole wheat makes it healthier and heartier too. The garlic, onion and parsley give a nice savory touch, but the turmeric is the wow factor in this dish. It adds a punch that makes you want a second helping. I think this is a crowd pleaser and I would definitely prepare it for company– hope you do too!
This dish is courtesy of Taste of Home and will serve 10 people who will definitely add this to their list of “party worthy” dishes!
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Ingredients for Seasoned Brown Rice Pilaf:
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cups uncooked brown rice
1 small onion, finely chopped
5 cups reduced-sodium beef broth
1 tablespoon dried parsley flakes
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon seasoned salt
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1/2 cup uncooked whole wheat orzo pasta
In a Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Add the rice and onion; saute until rice is lightly browned, 8 to 10 minutes.
Add the broth; stir in the next six ingredients.
Bring to a boil.
Reduce heat; simmer, covered for 35 minutes.
Add the orzo.
Cook, covered, until orzo is tender, 10 to 15 minutes longer.
It’s that simple!
