Lemon Rice with Zucchini, Roasted Peppers and Feta Cheese

Lemon Rice with Zucchini, Roasted Peppers and Feta Cheese Recipe

Region / culture: Greece | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 40 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Lemon Rice with Zucchini, Roasted Peppers, and Feta Cheese is a flavorful and colorful dish that combines the tangy taste of lemon with the sweetness of roasted peppers and the creaminess of feta cheese. This dish is perfect for a light and refreshing meal that is both satisfying and nutritious.

History

This recipe is a modern twist on traditional lemon rice, a popular dish in South Indian cuisine. Lemon rice is typically made with cooked rice, lemon juice, and spices. By adding zucchini, roasted peppers, and feta cheese, this recipe brings a new level of flavor and texture to the classic dish.

Ingredients

3 tbsp olive oil
1 onion, sliced
3 garlic cloves, crushed
1 small lemon, peeled and sliced
1 cup long-grain rice
2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
1 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
1 large zucchini, sliced
2 red bell peppers
1 yellow bell pepper
4 oz (113 g) feta cheese

How to prepare

In a medium saucepan, heat 2 tbsp of olive oil over medium-high heat.
Add the onion and sauté for 3 minutes.
Add the garlic and lemon and sauté for 2 minutes.
Add the rice, vegetable stock, and rosemary. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium.
Partially cover the saucepan and let simmer for 15 – 20 minutes until the broth is completely absorbed and the rice is just tender.
Add more broth or water if the mixture becomes too dry.
Roast the peppers:
Cut the peppers into quarters and remove the stem, seeds, and membranes.
Line a baking sheet with foil.
Place the peppers down on the foil, skin side up, and press each segment to lie flat on the sheet.
Bake in an oven at 425°F (218°C) for 20 minutes or until the skin is blackened and blistered.
Remove the peppers from the oven and place them in a paper bag.
Close the bag and let it cool for 10 minutes.
Remove and discard the skins, then slice each pepper.
In a large frying pan, heat the remaining 1 tbsp of olive oil on medium-high heat, then add the zucchini and cook for about 5 minutes until the zucchini begins to soften. Reduce heat to medium.
Add the peppers, rice, and feta cheese to the frying pan, then gently fold the ingredients together.
Cook for an additional minute until heated through, then serve.

Variations

Add some fresh herbs like parsley or mint for extra flavor.
Substitute the feta cheese with goat cheese or ricotta for a different taste.
Add some pine nuts or almonds for a crunchy texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use low-sodium vegetable broth to control the saltiness of the dish.

- Be careful not to overcook the rice, as it can become mushy.

- Roasting the peppers adds a smoky flavor to the dish, so make sure to blacken the skin well.

- Gently fold in the feta cheese at the end to prevent it from melting completely.

Serving Suggestions

This dish can be served as a main course with a side salad or as a side dish to grilled chicken or fish.

Cooking Techniques

Sautéing the onions and garlic before adding the rice helps to develop the flavors.

- Roasting the peppers adds a smoky flavor to the dish.

- Gently folding in the feta cheese at the end prevents it from melting completely.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use brown rice or quinoa instead of long-grain rice.

- Any color of bell peppers can be used for roasting.

- Any type of cheese can be used in place of feta cheese.

Make Ahead Tips

This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve this dish in a colorful bowl or plate to highlight the vibrant colors of the zucchini, peppers, and feta cheese. Garnish with fresh herbs or a lemon wedge for an extra touch.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light beer. It also goes well with a side of crusty bread or a green salad.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Lemon Rice with Zucchini, Roasted Peppers, and Feta Cheese contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Lemon Rice with Zucchini, Roasted Peppers, and Feta Cheese contains approximately 40 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of this dish contains approximately 15 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of this dish contains approximately 8 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in vitamin C from the lemon, zucchini, and peppers. It also contains calcium and vitamin D from the feta cheese.

Alergens

This dish contains dairy from the feta cheese, so it may not be suitable for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.

Summary

Overall, this dish is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious option for a meal.

Summary

Lemon Rice with Zucchini, Roasted Peppers, and Feta Cheese is a delicious and nutritious dish that is easy to make and full of flavor. With a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, this dish is a satisfying meal that is perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the tangy taste of lemon, the sweetness of roasted peppers, and the creaminess of feta cheese in every bite!

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is etched in my memory forever. It was a warm summer day, much like today, when I stumbled upon an old cookbook at a yard sale. The pages were yellowed and worn, but the recipes within were like hidden treasures waiting to be discovered.

As I flipped through the pages, one recipe caught my eye. It was for Lemon Rice with Zucchini, Roasted Peppers, and Feta Cheese. The combination of flavors sounded intriguing and I knew I had to try it out.

I brought the cookbook home and immediately set to work gathering the ingredients. I had never made anything quite like this before, but I was excited to give it a try. As I chopped the zucchini and roasted the peppers, the kitchen was filled with the delicious aroma of garlic and onions sautéing in olive oil.

Next, I added the rice and lemon juice to the pan, allowing the flavors to meld together. The zucchini and roasted peppers were added next, their vibrant colors brightening up the dish. Finally, I crumbled some feta cheese on top, adding a creamy and tangy finish to the dish.

As I took my first bite, I was transported to a culinary paradise. The lemony rice was perfectly cooked, with a hint of brightness that paired beautifully with the earthy roasted peppers and tender zucchini. The feta cheese added a rich and creamy element that tied everything together.

I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my kitchen, a dish that I would make time and time again. I served it to my family that evening, and they all raved about how delicious it was. My grandchildren, in particular, couldn't get enough of it, asking for seconds and thirds.

As the years passed, I continued to make Lemon Rice with Zucchini, Roasted Peppers, and Feta Cheese for special occasions and family gatherings. It became a dish that everyone looked forward to, a symbol of love and tradition that was passed down from generation to generation.

I often wonder about the origins of this recipe. Who was the person who first created it? What inspired them to combine these flavors in such a unique and delicious way? I may never know the answers to these questions, but I am grateful for the serendipitous moment when I stumbled upon this recipe in that old cookbook.

Now, as I stand in my kitchen, preparing this dish once again, I am filled with a sense of nostalgia and gratitude. This recipe has brought so much joy and connection to my family over the years, and I am thankful for the memories we have created around the dinner table, sharing laughter and good food.

As I take a bite of the Lemon Rice with Zucchini, Roasted Peppers, and Feta Cheese, I am reminded of all the moments we have shared together. The flavors dance on my tongue, each bite a reminder of the love and care that goes into every dish I make.

And so, as I continue to cook and create in my kitchen, I know that this recipe will always hold a special place in my heart. It is more than just a dish - it is a reminder of the joy and connection that food can bring to our lives. And for that, I am eternally grateful.