I make dishes like this all the time, but I hardly ever write about them because sometimes I think they are too simple to even post… But my sister in-law was over last night for dinner when I made this and she convinced me to post it 🙂  It’s simple, but it really packs a flavor punch!  This dish also only takes about 15- 20 minutes to make so it’s an easy side dish or toss in a few more of your favorite veggies and make it a main dish.  I used one of my favorite items from Trader Joe’s: the harvest grain blend.  You can find it by the rices and pastas.  It’s just a good hearty blend of pasta and grains and is easy to work with.  Def feel free to sub out if you don’t have a TJ’s near by!

Harvest Grains Pilaf

1 lb. Trader Joe’s harvest grain blend (but you are welcome to use any plain grain or pasta you like)

2 1/2 cups plus a few tbsps. vegetable broth

2 tbsp. Earth Balance (vegan butter or real), separated

1 medium onion, diced

2 portobello mushrooms, diced into bite size pieces

4 cloves of garlic, chopped

3 cups of spinach, sliced

salt to taste

In a pot, boil 2 1/2 cups vegetable broth and add in the grains and 1 tbsp. of Earth Balance.  Bring back to a boil and then reduce heat to a simmer.  Cook 10 minutes until liquid is absorbed.

While that’s cooking….

In a large frying pan, on medium heat, melt 1 tbsp Earth Balance with about 2 tbsp of olive oil and stir in the onions and mushrooms with a pinch of salt.  After about 1 minute add in the garlic.  Saute until the onions and mushrooms are soft.  Add in the grain mixture and the spinach.  Toss until mixed well and the spinach starts to wilt.  Add in a few tablespoons of vegetable broth if it’s too dry.

Serve warm and enjoy!

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