MSG Free Pomegranate-Mint Buckwheat Beet Pilaf

Total time1 hr 10 min

Prep time15 min

Cook time45 min

4.6

(18)

MSG Free Pomegranate-Mint Buckwheat Beet Pilaf

This grain bowl is a genuine showstopper — earthy roasted beets, nutty toasted buckwheat, jewel-bright pomegranate arils, and a cumin-lemon dressing that ties every element together in the most satisfying way. Every single ingredient here is whole and unprocessed, so you never have to second-guess a label or worry about hidden flavor enhancers sneaking into your meal. The buckwheat gets dry-toasted before simmering, which coaxes out a deep, almost smoky nuttiness that makes the whole pilaf feel far more complex than the ingredient list suggests. Fresh mint and scallion greens keep things lively and bright, while dry-roasted pumpkin seeds add a welcome crunch in every bite. The honey-lemon dressing is whisked together from scratch — olive oil, fresh lemon juice, zest, raw honey, and cumin — so you know exactly what's going in. It works beautifully served warm straight from the bowl, but it's equally good at room temperature, making it a smart choice for meal prep or a relaxed dinner spread.

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Ingredients

4 servings

For the roasted beets

2 medium beets (about 12 oz total), peeled and cut into ¾-inch cubes
1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
¼ tsp salt

For the buckwheat

1 cup raw buckwheat groats
2 cups water
¼ tsp salt

For the dressing

3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tsp lemon zest
1 tsp raw honey
½ tsp ground cumin
¼ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper

For the pilaf

½ cup pomegranate arils
⅓ cup fresh mint leaves, roughly torn
3 scallions (green tops only), thinly sliced
¼ cup dry-roasted pumpkin seeds

Instructions

1
Preheat the oven to 400°F (205°C). Toss the beet cubes with 1 tbsp olive oil and 1/4 tsp salt on a large rimmed baking sheet, spreading them in a single layer. Roast for 30–35 minutes, turning once halfway through, until the beets are tender when pierced with a fork and the edges are beginning to caramelize.
2
While the beets roast, heat a dry medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the buckwheat groats and toast, stirring frequently, for 3–4 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden — watch closely, as they can darken quickly.

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