Step 1

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. If not using a Dutch oven: lightly grease the baking dish that you plan to use.

Step 2

Heat the olive oil over medium heat in your Dutch oven or in a pot. Once the oil is shimmering, add the onion and salt and stir well. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until starting to brown slightly, 4-5 minutes.

Step 3

Add the garlic and cook for another approximately 60 seconds, until fragrant.

Step 4

Stir in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Remove from the heat and stir in the rice and bay leaf. If not using a Dutch oven, transfer contents to the prepared baking dish.

Step 5

Cover tightly (using foil in addition to a lid, if needed) and transfer to the oven. Bake until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed, about 60-65 minutes.

Step 6

Remove from the oven. Discard the bay leaf and stir in the chopped dates. Cover and let sit for a few minutes for the dates to soften. Stir in the pistachios and chopped herbs. Season to taste with additional salt and black pepper.