Parmesan Rice II

Parmesan Rice II Recipe - Italian Rice with Tomato and Parmesan Cheese

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Parmesan Rice II is a delicious and savory side dish that is easy to make and pairs well with a variety of main courses. This recipe combines the flavors of onion, celery, garlic, tomato sauce, and Parmesan cheese to create a flavorful and satisfying dish.

History

The origins of Parmesan Rice II are not well-documented, but it is likely a variation of traditional rice dishes that have been enjoyed for centuries. The addition of Parmesan cheese adds a rich and creamy flavor to the dish, making it a popular choice for those looking for a tasty and comforting side dish.

Ingredients

1 cup chopped onion
1 cup chopped celery
1 clove garlic, minced
2 tbsp butter or margarine
3 cups cooked rice
1 8 oz (227 g) can tomato sauce
0.5 tsp salt
0.13 tsp ground red pepper
0.13 tsp ground black pepper
0.25 cup grated parmesan cheese

How to prepare

Cook the onion, celery, and garlic in butter until they are tender crisp. Stir in the rice, tomato sauce, salt, red pepper, and black pepper. Heat the mixture thoroughly. Sprinkle it with additional cheese.

Variations

Add cooked chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
Stir in some chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, for added flavor.
Use different types of cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, for a different twist on the dish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the onion, celery, and garlic until they are tender crisp to ensure they are fully cooked and flavorful.

- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture.

- Feel free to adjust the seasonings to suit your taste preferences.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Parmesan Rice II alongside grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cook the onion, celery, and garlic until they are tender crisp before adding the rice and tomato sauce.

- Heat the mixture thoroughly to ensure all the flavors are well-combined.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use butter instead of margarine for a richer flavor.

- Substitute brown rice for white rice for a nuttier taste and added fiber.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the Parmesan Rice II ahead of time and reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Sprinkle the finished dish with additional grated Parmesan cheese for a decorative touch. - Serve the Parmesan Rice II in individual ramekins for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Parmesan Rice II with a glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio for a delicious and complementary meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat the Parmesan Rice II in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

210

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 32g

- Dietary Fiber: 2g

- Sugars: 3g

Fats

- Total Fat: 6g

- Saturated Fat: 2g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 6g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 10%

- Vitamin C: 8%

- Calcium: 10%

- Iron: 6%

Alergens

Contains dairy (Parmesan cheese)

Summary

Parmesan Rice II is a moderate source of carbohydrates and fats, with a good amount of protein and essential vitamins and minerals. It is a satisfying and flavorful side dish that can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.

Summary

Parmesan Rice II is a flavorful and satisfying side dish that is easy to make and pairs well with a variety of main courses. With a combination of savory flavors and creamy Parmesan cheese, this dish is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is still fresh in my mind. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my friend Margaret's house for a little tea party. As we sat in her cozy kitchen sipping on Earl Grey tea and nibbling on homemade scones, Margaret suddenly remembered she had a new recipe she wanted to try out.

She rummaged through her collection of recipe cards and pulled out a worn, stained card that read "Parmesan Rice II". Margaret explained that she had received the recipe from her aunt who had learned it from a famous Italian chef during her travels in Italy. I was intrigued by the story behind the recipe and eagerly offered to help her make it.

As we gathered the ingredients and prepared the dish, Margaret shared more details about the recipe. She explained that the key to making the perfect Parmesan Rice II was to use high-quality ingredients and to follow the instructions carefully. I watched intently as she sautéed the onions and garlic, added the Arborio rice, and slowly poured in the chicken broth while stirring constantly.

The aroma that wafted from the pot was heavenly – a combination of savory Parmesan cheese, fragrant garlic, and rich chicken broth. As we let the rice simmer and absorb all the flavors, Margaret and I chatted about our love for cooking and swapping recipes.

Finally, after about 20 minutes, the rice was perfectly cooked – tender, creamy, and bursting with flavor. Margaret sprinkled some freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top and garnished it with a few sprigs of parsley. We scooped generous portions into our bowls and took our first bites.

The taste was nothing short of divine. The rice was perfectly al dente, the Parmesan cheese added a creamy richness, and the garlic and onions lent a subtle depth of flavor. I knew right then and there that this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen.

As I bid Margaret goodbye and headed home, I couldn't stop thinking about the Parmesan Rice II. I was determined to recreate the dish for my family and share the deliciousness with them.

Over the next few weeks, I made the recipe countless times, tweaking it here and there to suit my family's tastes. I added some chopped fresh herbs for a pop of color, a dash of white wine for extra richness, and even experimented with different types of cheese for a unique twist.

Each time I made the Parmesan Rice II, it brought back memories of that fateful day at Margaret's house – of laughter, friendship, and the joy of discovering a new favorite recipe. I loved how versatile the dish was – it could be served as a side dish with grilled chicken, as a main course with some roasted vegetables, or even as a light lunch on its own.

As the years went by, the Parmesan Rice II became a beloved staple in my family's meals. Whenever we had guests over for dinner, I would proudly serve up a steaming pot of the creamy, cheesy rice and watch as their faces lit up with delight.

I even passed on the recipe to my own children, who now make it for their own families. They have added their own twists to the dish, just like I did, making it their own while still keeping the essence of the original recipe alive.

Now, as I sit in my cozy kitchen, surrounded by the comforting smells of garlic, onions, and Parmesan cheese, I can't help but feel grateful for that day I stumbled upon the Parmesan Rice II recipe. It has been a constant source of joy, comfort, and connection with my loved ones – a reminder that the simple act of cooking and sharing a delicious meal can create lasting memories that will be cherished for years to come.