Rice Primavera I

Rice Primavera I Recipe - Italian Rice Dish with Vegetables

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Rice Primavera is a delicious and colorful dish that is perfect for a light and healthy meal. Packed with fresh vegetables and creamy sauce, this dish is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

History

Rice Primavera is a classic Italian dish that translates to "springtime rice." It is typically made with a variety of fresh vegetables and a creamy sauce, making it a perfect dish for the warmer months when vegetables are in abundance.

Ingredients

2 tsp olive oil
1 garlic clove
2 cups broccoli flowerets
1 cup sliced zucchini
1 cup sliced fresh mushrooms
1 medium tomato, seeded and chopped
0.25 cup snipped fresh parsley
0.33 cup reduced-calorie mayonnaise
0.5 cup skim milk
0.25 cup freshly grated parmesan
0.25 tsp ground white or red pepper
3 cups cooked rice

How to prepare

Heat garlic with oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Discard the garlic.
Cook broccoli, zucchini, and mushrooms in the oil until they are almost tender crisp.
Add tomatoes and parsley; cook for one minute longer.
Remove the vegetables and set them aside.
Place mayonnaise in the same skillet; stir in milk, cheese, and pepper.
Cook over medium heat, stirring until the mixture is smooth.
Add rice and toss to coat.
Stir in the reserved vegetables and heat through.
Serve immediately.

Variations

Add cooked chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
Use different vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or peas.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the vegetables until they are just tender crisp to maintain their vibrant colors and flavors.

- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor.

- Feel free to customize the vegetables in this dish based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Rice Primavera as a main dish with a side salad or crusty bread.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cook the vegetables until they are just tender crisp to maintain their texture.

- Toss the rice with the sauce just before serving to ensure it is well coated.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use Greek yogurt in place of mayonnaise for a lighter option.

- Use different types of cheese such as mozzarella or cheddar.

Make Ahead Tips

Rice Primavera can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley before serving for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Rice Primavera with a crisp white wine such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.

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

Calories: 250 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 38g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 7g per serving

Saturated Fat: 2g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 7g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Rice Primavera is a good source of Vitamin C, Vitamin A, and Calcium.

Alergens

Contains dairy (Parmesan cheese) and eggs (mayonnaise).

Summary

Rice Primavera is a nutritious dish that is low in calories and high in vitamins and minerals. It is a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet.

Summary

Rice Primavera is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a light and healthy meal. Packed with fresh vegetables and creamy sauce, this dish is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I can't forget the moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Rice Primavera. It was a warm summer afternoon, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her cozy kitchen. Maria had always been an incredible cook, and I loved learning new recipes from her.

As I walked into her kitchen, the aroma of garlic and herbs filled the air. Maria greeted me with a warm smile and a twinkle in her eye. "I have a special recipe to share with you today," she said, motioning for me to take a seat at the table.

Maria began to gather the ingredients for the dish – fresh vegetables, fragrant herbs, and a bag of Arborio rice. As she chopped the vegetables with precision and skill, she shared the story behind the recipe.

"I learned this recipe from my grandmother," Maria explained. "She used to make it for our family on special occasions, and it was always a hit. I've added my own twist to it over the years, and it has become a beloved dish in my own home."

I watched in awe as Maria worked her magic in the kitchen, combining the ingredients with grace and finesse. She cooked the rice in a rich vegetable broth, then added the sautéed vegetables and herbs to create a colorful and fragrant dish.

Once the Rice Primavera was ready, Maria served it in beautiful porcelain bowls, garnished with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. The first bite was a burst of flavors – the tender rice, the crisp vegetables, and the herby undertones were a symphony in my mouth.

I couldn't believe how simple yet delicious the dish was. The flavors were bright and fresh, like a taste of summer in every bite. I knew right away that I had to learn how to make this recipe and share it with my own family.

Maria was kind enough to write down the recipe for me, explaining each step in detail. I took notes eagerly, soaking up every word and technique she shared. I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen, a dish that I would make for my loved ones on special occasions and lazy Sundays alike.

Over the years, I have made Rice Primavera countless times, each time with a sense of joy and nostalgia. Every time I cook this dish, I am transported back to that warm summer afternoon in Maria's kitchen, surrounded by the comforting smells and sounds of cooking.

I have shared the recipe with friends and family, passing on the tradition of this beloved dish. Each time someone takes a bite of my Rice Primavera, I see a spark of delight in their eyes, just like the one I had when Maria first served me the dish.

The recipe for Rice Primavera has become a part of my culinary repertoire, a reminder of the power of food to bring people together and create lasting memories. I am grateful to Maria for sharing this recipe with me, and I cherish the moments spent in her kitchen, learning and cooking together.

As I sit down to enjoy a bowl of Rice Primavera, I am filled with gratitude for the people and experiences that have shaped my love for cooking. This dish will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the beauty and joy that can be found in a simple meal shared with loved ones.