Mozzarella, Tomato and Basil Rice Casserole

Mozzarella, Tomato and Basil Rice Casserole - Italian Recipe

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 40 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

This Mozzarella, Tomato and Basil Rice Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that combines the flavors of fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil with fluffy rice. It is a perfect side dish for any meal or can even be enjoyed on its own as a main course.

History

This recipe is a modern twist on traditional Italian flavors, combining classic ingredients like tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil with rice to create a hearty and satisfying casserole dish.

Ingredients

2 tbsp of olive oil
2 cups of uncooked rice
0.25 tsp of ground white pepper
5.5 cups of chicken broth
3 tomatoes, chopped
1 lb (454 g) of mozzarella, cubed
0.5 cup of chopped fresh basil
vegetable cooking spray
0.25 cup of butter

How to prepare

Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add rice and cook and stir for 3 to 5 minutes, or until golden brown. Add pepper and broth. Heat to boiling and stir once or twice. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed.
In a large bowl, combine rice, tomatoes, cheese, and basil. Coat a 13x9x2-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Pour the rice mixture into the baking dish and dot with butter. Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (191°C) for 25 minutes or until heated through.

Variations

Add cooked chicken or sausage for a heartier dish.
Use different types of cheese, such as cheddar or Parmesan, for a different flavor profile.
Add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrition.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor. Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil will make a big difference in the final dish.

- Be sure to cook the rice until it is just tender, as it will continue to cook in the oven.

- Feel free to add other ingredients like cooked chicken or vegetables to customize the dish to your liking.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole can be served as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish, or enjoyed on its own as a vegetarian main course.

Cooking Techniques

This recipe uses a combination of stovetop cooking and baking to create a flavorful and creamy casserole.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version of this dish.

- Substitute quinoa or couscous for the rice for a different texture.

Make Ahead Tips

This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to bake. Simply cover with foil and bake as directed.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the casserole with fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese before serving for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with a crisp green salad and a glass of white wine for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this casserole contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of this Mozzarella, Tomato and Basil Rice Casserole contains approximately 35 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of this dish contains approximately 18 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of this casserole contains approximately 15 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, calcium, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (mozzarella) and gluten (rice), so it may not be suitable for those with dairy or gluten allergies.

Summary

This Mozzarella, Tomato and Basil Rice Casserole is a balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, along with essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

This Mozzarella, Tomato and Basil Rice Casserole is a delicious and versatile dish that is sure to become a family favorite. With its creamy mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil, it is a comforting and satisfying meal that is perfect for any occasion.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for the first time. It was a warm summer day, and I was browsing through a quaint little bookstore in the heart of Tuscany. As I perused the shelves of old cookbooks, my eyes landed on a weathered tome with faded gold lettering. Curious, I flipped through the pages and was immediately drawn to a recipe for Mozzarella, Tomato and Basil Rice Casserole.

The ingredients were simple yet elegant: ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, creamy mozzarella, and of course, Arborio rice. The instructions were written in a flowing script that spoke of tradition and love for good food. I knew right then and there that I had to try making this dish for myself.

Back at the villa where I was staying, I gathered the ingredients and set to work. I sliced the tomatoes into thick rounds, tearing the basil leaves into fragrant ribbons. The mozzarella was soft and milky, a perfect contrast to the tartness of the tomatoes. As I stirred the Arborio rice into the mixture, I felt a sense of contentment wash over me. This was more than just a recipe - it was a connection to the past, to the generations of cooks who had come before me.

As the casserole baked in the oven, the aroma of bubbling cheese and sweet tomatoes filled the air. I could hardly wait to take my first bite. When the timer finally dinged, I pulled the dish out of the oven and let it cool on the counter. The cheese was golden and bubbly, the tomatoes soft and juicy. I scooped out a generous portion onto a plate and took a tentative bite.

The flavors exploded in my mouth - the creaminess of the mozzarella, the acidity of the tomatoes, the peppery kick of the basil. It was like tasting a little piece of Italy, a little piece of history. I knew then that this recipe would become a staple in my repertoire, a dish to be shared with loved ones and passed down through the generations.

Over the years, I have made this Mozzarella, Tomato and Basil Rice Casserole countless times. Each time, it brings me back to that warm summer day in Tuscany, to the thrill of discovery and the joy of creating something truly special. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, who have all fallen in love with its simple yet comforting flavors.

As I sit here now, reflecting on the memories of that day in the bookstore, I am filled with gratitude for the gift of good food and the joy of cooking. This recipe will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the power of tradition and the beauty of a shared meal. And so, I will continue to make this dish for years to come, passing on the legacy of Mozzarella, Tomato and Basil Rice Casserole to the next generation of cooks.