Rice Jardin

Vegetarian Rice Jardin Recipe with Zucchini, Corn, and Tomatoes

Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Rice Jardin is a delicious and nutritious dish that combines the flavors of zucchini, corn, tomatoes, and rice. This dish is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal that the whole family will love.

History

Rice Jardin is a classic dish that has been enjoyed for generations. It is a popular recipe in many Latin American countries, where fresh vegetables are abundant and often used in traditional cooking.

Ingredients

2 tbsp butter or margarine
1 lb (454 g) zucchini, sliced
0.75 cup chopped onion
1 cup (8 oz or 227 g) canned whole kernel corn, drained
1 cup drained canned tomatoes, chopped
3 cups cooked rice
1 tsp salt
0.25 tsp ground black pepper
0.25 tsp ground coriander
0.25 tsp oregano leaves

How to prepare

Melt the butter in a large skillet with a cover over medium-high heat. Add the zucchini and onion; cook, uncovered, stirring, for 3 to 5 minutes or until the onion is tender. Add the corn, tomatoes, rice, salt, pepper, coriander, and oregano. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes. Stir and serve immediately.

Variations

Add cooked chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
Use quinoa or couscous instead of rice for a different texture.
Add diced bell peppers or jalapenos for extra flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the zucchini and onion until they are tender but still slightly crisp for the best texture.

- You can customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or protein, such as chicken or shrimp.

- For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Rice Jardin as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish, or enjoy it as a main course with a side salad.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cook the vegetables until they are tender but still slightly crisp for the best texture.

- Covering the skillet while simmering helps to steam the vegetables and rice, infusing them with flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use butter or olive oil instead of margarine.

- Use fresh tomatoes instead of canned for a brighter flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Rice Jardin 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

Garnish Rice Jardin with fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, for a pop of color and flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Rice Jardin with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, or a light beer for a refreshing pairing.

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 Rice Jardin contains approximately 220 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Rice Jardin contains approximately 40 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Rice Jardin contains approximately 6 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Rice Jardin contains approximately 4 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Rice Jardin is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium.

Alergens

Rice Jardin is gluten-free and dairy-free, making it suitable for those with food allergies or sensitivities.

Summary

Rice Jardin is a nutritious and flavorful dish that is low in calories and fat. It is a great option for a healthy and satisfying meal.

Summary

Rice Jardin is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal. Packed with fresh vegetables and flavorful spices, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

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, just like today, when I stumbled upon it in an old cookbook at a garage sale. The cover was tattered and stained, but the pages were filled with handwritten notes and scribbles. As I flipped through the pages, a recipe caught my eye: Rice Jardin.

I had never heard of Rice Jardin before, but something about the name intrigued me. I bought the cookbook for a mere 50 cents and rushed home to try out the recipe. Little did I know that this simple dish would become one of my signature recipes, loved by my family and friends.

The ingredients were simple: rice, vegetables, broth, and a few spices. The instructions were easy to follow, but I decided to add my own twist to the recipe. I diced some carrots, bell peppers, and onions to give the dish some color and flavor. I also added a dash of cumin and paprika for an extra kick.

As the rice cooked and the vegetables simmered, a wonderful aroma filled my kitchen. The colors of the dish were vibrant and inviting, and I couldn't wait to dig in. When I finally took my first bite, I knew I had stumbled upon a hidden gem.

The flavors of the vegetables blended perfectly with the spices, creating a harmonious and satisfying dish. The rice was fluffy and flavorful, with each grain perfectly cooked. I couldn't believe that such a simple recipe could taste so delicious.

I shared the Rice Jardin with my family that evening, and they all raved about it. My grandchildren asked for second helpings, and my husband declared it his new favorite dish. I knew then that this recipe would become a staple in my kitchen.

Over the years, I have made Rice Jardin countless times, each time tweaking the recipe to perfection. Sometimes I add a squeeze of lemon juice for a tangy twist, or a handful of fresh herbs for a pop of flavor. But no matter how I change it, the dish always brings back that warm summer day when I first discovered it.

I have shared the recipe with friends and neighbors, who have all fallen in love with its simplicity and taste. It has become a go-to dish for potlucks and family gatherings, always receiving compliments and requests for the recipe. I even entered it in a local cooking competition once, where it won first prize!

As I sit here, stirring a pot of Rice Jardin on my stove, I can't help but feel grateful for that serendipitous day at the garage sale. That cookbook has become a treasure trove of recipes, but Rice Jardin will always hold a special place in my heart.

So if you ever find yourself in need of a comforting and delicious dish, look no further than Rice Jardin. It may have humble beginnings, but its flavors will transport you to a place of warmth and happiness. And who knows, maybe one day you'll pass the recipe on to someone else, creating a chain of culinary delight that spans generations.