Bulgur & Lentil Pilaf with Almonds

Whole-grain bulgur and easy-to-cook lentils combine with aromatic vegetables, fragrant spices, and fresh herbs in a versatile side dish. Bulgur is made by parboiling wheat grains while still in the husk, then husking, drying, and chopping in varying sizes, from coarse to tiny. That process makes bulgur quicker to cook than other whole grains while preserving the protein, iron, and vitamin B6. Lentils provide plenty of protein, iron, and fiber. A topping of toasted almonds stands in for chee