Rice Vegetali

Rice Vegetali Recipe - A delicious rice dish with Swiss cheese and veggies

Region / culture: Italy, Switzerland, USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Rice Vegetali is a delicious and nutritious dish that combines cooked rice with a variety of vegetables and cheese. This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal that the whole family will love.

History

Rice Vegetali is a popular dish that originated in Italy, where rice is a staple ingredient in many traditional recipes. This particular recipe combines the flavors of fresh vegetables with the creamy richness of cheese to create a satisfying and flavorful dish.

Ingredients

3 cups cooked rice
1 cup (4 oz / 113 g) shredded swiss cheese
1 medium tomato, coarsely chopped
1 small zucchini, coarsely chopped
0.5 cup chopped onion
1 clove garlic, minced
2 tbsp vegetable oil
1 tbsp cider vinegar
1 tbsp water
1 tsp marjoram leaves, crushed
1 tsp salt
0.25 tsp ground black pepper
0.25 tsp dry mustard

How to prepare

In a large bowl, combine rice, cheese, tomato, zucchini, onion, and garlic.
Blend oil, vinegar, marjoram, salt, pepper, and mustard together.
Toss the rice mixture with the dressing.
Spoon the mixture into a 2 qt (1.89 liter) baking dish.
Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 20 to 25 minutes, or until hot.

Variations

Add cooked chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
Use different types of cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, for a different flavor profile.
Experiment with different vegetables, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the rice according to package instructions before adding it to the other ingredients.

- Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite vegetables or cheese for a unique twist on the classic dish.

- For a crispy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs or additional cheese on top before baking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Rice Vegetali as a main dish with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Baking

Ingredient Substitutions

Use brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice for a healthier option.

- Substitute olive oil for vegetable oil for a different flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the rice and vegetable mixture ahead of time and store in the refrigerator until ready to bake.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Rice Vegetali with a crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio, 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 oven until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Rice Vegetali contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Rice Vegetali contains approximately 35 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Rice Vegetali contains approximately 12 grams of fat.

Proteins

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

Vitamins and minerals

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

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese) and may not be suitable for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.

Summary

Rice Vegetali is a balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Rice Vegetali is a versatile and flavorful dish that is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal. With a mix of vegetables, cheese, and rice, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with excitement. It was a warm summer day and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her cozy little kitchen. She had just returned from a trip to Italy and was eager to share with me a new recipe she had learned while she was there.

As she pulled out the ingredients for Rice Vegetali, I couldn't help but feel a sense of wonder and curiosity. The colorful array of vegetables, the fragrant herbs and spices, and the hearty rice all came together in a beautiful symphony of flavors and textures that I had never experienced before.

Maria began to walk me through the recipe, explaining each step in detail and sharing with me the stories behind each ingredient. She told me how the vegetables were all freshly picked from her garden, how the rice was handpicked from a local farm, and how the herbs and spices were all carefully selected from the market in the town square.

As we cooked together, I watched in awe as Maria effortlessly moved around the kitchen, her hands deftly chopping, sautéing, and stirring with a grace and ease that only comes from years of practice and experience. I couldn't help but feel inspired by her passion for cooking and her dedication to preserving the traditions and flavors of her homeland.

As the Rice Vegetali simmered on the stove, filling the kitchen with its delightful aroma, Maria and I sat down at the table to enjoy our meal. With each bite, I could taste the love and care that had gone into preparing this dish, and I knew that I had just experienced something truly special.

From that day on, Rice Vegetali became a staple in my own kitchen. I would make it for family gatherings, dinner parties, and even just for myself on a quiet evening at home. Each time I cooked it, I would think back to that sunny afternoon in Maria's kitchen and remember the joy and wonder I felt as I learned how to make this delicious dish.

Over the years, I have shared the recipe for Rice Vegetali with many friends and family members, passing on the tradition and the love that Maria had shared with me. And as I watch them cook and enjoy this dish, I can't help but feel a sense of pride and gratitude for the wonderful gift that Maria had given me that day.

So whenever I make Rice Vegetali, I do so with a smile on my face and a warm heart, knowing that this recipe will continue to bring joy and delight to those who taste it, just as it has for me. And I am forever grateful to Maria for teaching me how to make this delicious and unforgettable dish.