Rice Mozzarella

Rice Mozzarella Recipe with Tomato and Basil | Vegetarian Food

Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Rice Mozzarella is a delicious and comforting dish that combines the flavors of ripe tomatoes, melted cheese, and fragrant herbs. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

History

Rice Mozzarella is a classic Italian dish that has been enjoyed for generations. It is a simple and versatile recipe that can be customized with different ingredients to suit your taste preferences.

Ingredients

1 large ripe tomato, cut into sixteenths
1 tsp salt
3 cups hot cooked rice
1 cup (4 oz / 113 g) shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
1 tsp basil
0.25 tsp ground black pepper
1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
2 tbsp grated parmesan cheese (optional)

How to prepare

Place the tomato in a large bowl and sprinkle it with salt.
Stir in the rice, 0.5 cup of mozzarella cheese, basil, and pepper.
Spoon the mixture into a greased 2 qt (1.89 liter) baking dish and sprinkle it with the remaining 0.5 cup of mozzarella cheese, parsley, and Parmesan cheese.
Bake, uncovered, at 350°F (177°C) for 20 to 25 minutes, or until it is thoroughly heated.

Variations

Add cooked vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms.
Use different types of cheese such as cheddar or Gouda.
Add cooked ground beef or sausage for a meatier version of the dish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use ripe tomatoes for the best flavor in this dish.

- You can add cooked chicken or shrimp to make this dish more filling.

- Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor of the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Rice Mozzarella with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Baking

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use any type of cheese in place of mozzarella.

- You can use brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the Rice Mozzarella mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it until you are ready to bake it.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the Rice Mozzarella with fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Rice Mozzarella with a glass of white wine or a crisp 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 oven until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Rice Mozzarella contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

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

Fats

Each serving of Rice Mozzarella contains approximately 15 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Rice Mozzarella contains approximately 10 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Rice Mozzarella is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, calcium, and iron.

Alergens

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

Summary

Rice Mozzarella is a balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also a good source of vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Rice Mozzarella is a delicious and comforting dish that is easy to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner. With its combination of ripe tomatoes, melted cheese, and fragrant herbs, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

How did I get this recipe?

I recall the moment I first laid eyes on this recipe for Rice Mozzarella. It was a warm summer day and I was visiting my friend Maria in her cozy kitchen. As soon as I walked in, I could smell the delicious aroma of something cooking on the stove. Maria greeted me with a warm smile and a hug, inviting me to sit down at the table.

As we chatted and caught up on each other's lives, Maria started to prepare a dish that I had never seen before. She explained that it was a family recipe for Rice Mozzarella, a traditional Italian dish that her mother had passed down to her. I watched in awe as she deftly cooked the rice, melted the mozzarella cheese, and seasoned it with herbs and spices.

As Maria served me a generous portion of the Rice Mozzarella, I took my first bite and was instantly transported to food heaven. The creamy texture of the melted cheese combined with the fluffy rice and savory flavors was unlike anything I had ever tasted before. I begged Maria for the recipe, determined to learn how to make this delicious dish for myself.

Maria laughed and agreed to teach me her family's secret recipe. Over the next few hours, she patiently guided me through each step, explaining the importance of using high-quality ingredients and taking the time to let the flavors meld together. I took notes and asked questions, eager to absorb as much knowledge as possible.

After we had finished cooking, Maria and I sat down to enjoy the fruits of our labor. The Rice Mozzarella was even better than I remembered, and I couldn't believe that I had helped to create such a masterpiece. Maria smiled at me and said, "Now you can make this dish for your family and friends, and pass on the tradition to the next generation."

From that day on, Rice Mozzarella became a staple in my own kitchen. I would make it for special occasions, family gatherings, or just when I wanted a comforting meal that reminded me of my dear friend Maria. I experimented with different variations, adding in vegetables, meats, or spices to create unique twists on the classic recipe.

As the years went by, I shared the recipe for Rice Mozzarella with anyone who would listen. I taught my children and grandchildren how to make it, passing down the tradition that Maria had so graciously shared with me. I even entered a cooking competition and won first place with my version of the dish, proudly showcasing the recipe that had become so dear to my heart.

Now, whenever I make Rice Mozzarella, I think of Maria and the day she opened my eyes to the world of traditional Italian cooking. I am grateful for her friendship, her generosity, and her willingness to share her family's treasured recipe with me. And I hope that one day, my own grandchildren will carry on the tradition and continue to make this delicious dish for generations to come.