Rice and Lentil Pilaf

The Arborio rice is superb in this dish. For the lentils, I only had miniature green lentils and they worked well in this recipe. The topping of fresh cilantro mixed with vinegar worked well to cut the grease from the onions. However, 1/4 cup of olive oil was excessive to fry the onions, and I would use the minimum oil necessary. All the components are essential for an intensely flavored side dish that could stand alone for a vegetarian dish.

I agree with the comment about the oil. 2T would be what I would use in my non stick pan. This is a delious preparation. I use the Puy lentils when I have them and the brown lentils when I don't. Both are good to the overall dish. Brown is softer and larger and may mush up a bit. The puy hold their shape, are more toothsome and are smaller.