Green and Gold Rice Casserole

Green and Gold Rice Casserole Recipe from USA with Parsley, Bell Pepper, and Cheddar Cheese

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Green and Gold Rice Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that combines the flavors of fresh parsley, green bell pepper, onion, and cheddar cheese. This casserole is perfect for a family dinner or a potluck gathering.

History

The origins of Green and Gold Rice Casserole are unclear, but it is a popular dish in many households. This recipe has been passed down through generations and has been enjoyed by many for its flavorful and hearty ingredients.

Ingredients

1 cup of chopped fresh parsley
0.75 cup of chopped green bell pepper
0.5 cup of chopped onion
1 tbsp of butter or margarine
1 10-0.75 oz (21 g) can of condensed cream of chicken soup
1 cup (4 oz (113 g)) of shredded cheddar cheese, divided
0.5 cup of half and half
1 tsp of garlic salt
1 tsp of seasoned pepper
1 tbsp of lemon juice
3 cups of cooked rice
6 hard-cooked eggs, chopped
0.5 cup of dry breadcrumbs
paprika (optional)

How to prepare

Cook parsley, green pepper, and onion in butter in a large skillet until tender-crisp.
Add soup, 0.5 cup of cheese, half and half, garlic salt, seasoned pepper, and lemon juice; heat.
Stir in rice and eggs. Turn into a greased shallow 2 qt (1.89 liter) baking dish.
Top with the remaining 0.5 cup of cheese and breadcrumbs.
Sprinkle with paprika, if desired.
Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 25 minutes or until hot and bubbly.

Variations

Add cooked chicken or turkey for a protein boost.
Substitute different vegetables, such as broccoli or mushrooms, for a different flavor profile.
Use different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or Swiss, for a unique twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the parsley, green pepper, and onion until they are tender-crisp to ensure that they retain their flavor and texture.

- Adding lemon juice to the casserole gives it a bright and fresh flavor that complements the other ingredients.

- For a crispy topping, sprinkle the breadcrumbs over the casserole just before baking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Green and Gold Rice Casserole as a main dish with a side salad or steamed vegetables.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cook the vegetables until they are tender-crisp to retain their texture and flavor.

- Mix the ingredients gently to avoid breaking up the cooked rice and eggs.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use fresh herbs, such as cilantro or basil, in place of parsley.

- Substitute milk or cream for the half and half.

- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version of the casserole.

Make Ahead Tips

Green and Gold Rice Casserole can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to bake. Simply cover the casserole dish with plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

Presentation Ideas

Sprinkle the casserole with fresh parsley or chives before serving for a pop of color. Serve the casserole in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Green and Gold Rice Casserole pairs well with a crisp green salad and a glass of white wine.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Green and Gold Rice Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Green and Gold Rice Casserole contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Green and Gold Rice Casserole contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Green and Gold Rice Casserole contains approximately 15 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Green and Gold Rice Casserole contains approximately 12 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Green and Gold Rice Casserole is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese and half and half) and eggs.

Summary

Green and Gold Rice Casserole is a balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious choice for a meal.

Summary

Green and Gold Rice Casserole is a flavorful and comforting dish that is perfect for a family dinner or a potluck gathering. With its combination of fresh parsley, green bell pepper, onion, and cheddar cheese, this casserole is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was hooked. It was a sunny day in the 1960s, and I was visiting my friend Martha's house for a potluck dinner. As soon as I walked into her kitchen, the aroma of spices and herbs filled the air, and I knew I was in for a treat.

Martha was bustling around the kitchen, pulling out pots and pans, chopping vegetables, and measuring out ingredients with precision. I watched in awe as she effortlessly prepared dish after dish, each one more delicious-looking than the last.

But it was the Green and Gold Rice Casserole that caught my eye. Martha explained that it was a family recipe passed down from her grandmother, who had learned it from a friend who had traveled to India in the 1920s. The dish was a colorful and flavorful combination of basmati rice, peas, golden raisins, cashews, and a blend of Indian spices.

I couldn't wait to taste it, and when Martha finally pulled the casserole out of the oven, I was not disappointed. The rice was perfectly cooked, the peas were tender, the raisins added a touch of sweetness, and the cashews provided a satisfying crunch. The combination of flavors and textures was unlike anything I had ever tasted before.

I begged Martha for the recipe, and she graciously agreed to share it with me. As I watched her write down the ingredients and instructions on a recipe card, I knew that this dish would become a staple in my own kitchen for years to come.

When I got home that night, I couldn't wait to try making the Green and Gold Rice Casserole myself. I gathered all the ingredients and carefully followed Martha's instructions, taking my time to sauté the onions and spices, toast the cashews, and mix everything together with the rice and peas.

As the casserole baked in the oven, the delicious aroma filled my kitchen, reminding me of that sunny day at Martha's house. When it was finally ready, I scooped out a generous portion onto my plate and took my first bite.

It was perfect. The flavors were rich and complex, the textures were satisfying, and the dish brought back memories of friendship and good times shared with Martha. I knew that I had found a new favorite recipe, one that I would cherish and pass down to future generations.

Over the years, I continued to make the Green and Gold Rice Casserole for family gatherings, potlucks, and special occasions. Each time, it was met with rave reviews and requests for the recipe. I always made sure to credit Martha and her grandmother for introducing me to this wonderful dish, and I enjoyed sharing the story behind it with anyone who asked.

As I grew older, my love for cooking only deepened, and I found myself seeking out new recipes and techniques to add to my repertoire. But the Green and Gold Rice Casserole remained a constant in my kitchen, a comforting and familiar dish that never failed to bring joy to those who tasted it.

Now, as I sit here in my cozy kitchen, surrounded by the aroma of spices and herbs, I can't help but smile as I think back on that day at Martha's house. That simple potluck dinner not only introduced me to a delicious new recipe, but it also sparked a lifelong passion for cooking and sharing food with loved ones.

And as I take another bite of the Green and Gold Rice Casserole, I am reminded once again of the power of good food to bring people together, create lasting memories, and nourish both body and soul. It's a recipe that will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the joy and friendship that can be found in a simple dish made with love.