Vegetable Rice Bake

Vegetable Rice Bake Recipe with Chicken Bouillon, Green Pepper, Zucchini, and More

| Servings: 6 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Vegetable Rice Bake is a delicious and nutritious dish that combines the flavors of rice, vegetables, and cheese in a comforting casserole. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a potluck gathering, as it is easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time.

History

The origins of Vegetable Rice Bake are not clear, but it is a popular dish in many households around the world. This recipe has been passed down through generations and has evolved over time to include different variations and ingredients.

Ingredients

2 tsp instant chicken bouillon
0.5 cup chopped green pepper
2 cups shredded zucchini or chopped broccoli
0.5 tsp onion powder
0.5 tsp dried oregano, crushed
4 oz (113 g) low-calorie cream cheese (soft)
0.67 cup long-grain rice
2 beaten eggs
1 cup skim milk
0.5 tsp dried basil, crushed
0.75 cup shredded low-fat cheddar cheese
2 tbsp diced pimento

How to prepare

In a saucepan, combine bouillon granules and 1.5 cups of water.
Bring to a boil and add rice.
Reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 20 minutes or until tender.
Meanwhile, in a medium saucepan, combine green pepper and 0.5 cups of water.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat.
Cover and simmer for 2 minutes.
Add shredded zucchini or chopped broccoli.
Cover and simmer for 3 – 5 minutes or until crisp-tender; drain well.
Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, combine eggs, milk, onion powder, basil, oregano, and 0.13 tsp of pepper.
Stir cheddar cheese and cream cheese into the hot rice.
Stir rice mixture into the egg mixture.
Stir in cooked vegetables and pimento.
Spoon into a 10x6x2" baking dish.
Bake, uncovered, in a 350°F (177°C) oven for 30 – 35 minutes or until the center is set.
Let it stand for 5 minutes before serving.

Variations

You can customize this recipe by adding different vegetables, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or feta, for a unique flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the rice until it is tender, but not mushy, to ensure the perfect texture in the final dish.

- You can customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or using different types of cheese for a unique flavor profile.

- To save time, you can prepare the vegetables and rice ahead of time and assemble the casserole just before baking.

Serving Suggestions

Vegetable Rice Bake can be served as a main dish with a side salad or steamed vegetables. It also pairs well with a slice of crusty bread or garlic bread.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making a delicious Vegetable Rice Bake is to cook the rice and vegetables until they are tender but still have a slight crunch. Be sure to mix the ingredients well to ensure even distribution of flavors.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have cream cheese on hand, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a tangy flavor. You can also use different types of rice, such as brown rice or wild rice, for a nutty flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the Vegetable Rice Bake ahead of time and refrigerate it until you are ready to bake. Simply cover the dish with foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

Presentation Ideas

To make the Vegetable Rice Bake more visually appealing, you can sprinkle some chopped parsley or fresh herbs on top before serving. You can also garnish with a sprinkle of paprika or grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Vegetable Rice Bake pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. You can also serve it with a light beer or sparkling water for a refreshing drink option.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Vegetable Rice Bake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply cover the dish with foil and bake in a 350°F (177°C) oven for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Vegetable Rice Bake contains around 250 calories, making it a satisfying and filling meal option.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Vegetable Rice Bake contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates, making it a good source of energy for your body.

Fats

This dish is relatively low in fat, with each serving containing around 8 grams of fat. The cream cheese and cheddar cheese add a creamy texture without adding too much fat.

Proteins

Vegetable Rice Bake is a good source of protein, with each serving containing approximately 12 grams. The eggs and cheese provide essential amino acids for muscle growth and repair.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is packed with vitamins and minerals from the vegetables, including vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium. These nutrients are essential for overall health and well-being.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cream cheese and cheddar cheese) and eggs, which may be allergens for some individuals. Be sure to check for any food allergies before serving.

Summary

Overall, Vegetable Rice Bake is a nutritious and balanced meal option that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals.

Summary

Vegetable Rice Bake is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a family dinner or a potluck gathering. This recipe is easy to make and can be customized with your favorite vegetables and cheese. Enjoy this comforting casserole as a satisfying meal option that is sure to please everyone at the table.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately drawn to it. It was a chilly autumn day, and I had just finished picking fresh vegetables from my garden. As I was flipping through an old cookbook that had been passed down from my grandmother, I stumbled upon a recipe titled "Vegetable Rice Bake." The colorful photo of the dish caught my eye, and I knew I had to try making it.

I had never made a dish quite like this before, but I was excited to experiment in the kitchen. The recipe called for a variety of vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, carrots, and onions, which I had plenty of in my garden. It also required cooked rice, cheese, and a creamy sauce made from a blend of milk, flour, and seasonings.

As I gathered the ingredients and started chopping the vegetables, memories of my own grandmother flooded my mind. She was a wonderful cook who had a knack for creating delicious meals out of simple ingredients. I remembered how she would always encourage me to try new recipes and to never be afraid to experiment in the kitchen.

I sautéed the vegetables in a hot pan until they were tender and fragrant, then mixed in the cooked rice and cheese. I prepared the creamy sauce and poured it over the vegetable and rice mixture, making sure to coat everything evenly. The dish was then topped with a sprinkle of breadcrumbs for added crunch.

As the Vegetable Rice Bake baked in the oven, the aroma that filled my kitchen was absolutely heavenly. The smell of the vegetables mingling with the cheese and creamy sauce was enough to make my mouth water. I couldn't wait to taste the finished dish.

When the timer finally went off, I eagerly pulled the Vegetable Rice Bake out of the oven. The cheese was bubbly and golden brown, and the breadcrumbs had crisped up perfectly. I let it cool for a few minutes before serving myself a generous portion.

The first bite was pure bliss. The vegetables were tender yet still had a bit of bite to them, the rice was fluffy and flavorful, and the creamy sauce tied everything together beautifully. The dish was comforting and satisfying, perfect for a cozy autumn evening.

I couldn't wait to share this recipe with my family and friends. I knew they would love it just as much as I did. As I sat at the table enjoying my meal, I thought about all the recipes I had collected over the years and how each one told a story. This Vegetable Rice Bake would always remind me of the chilly autumn day when I first discovered it in my grandmother's old cookbook.

From that day on, the Vegetable Rice Bake became a staple in my recipe collection. I made it for family gatherings, potlucks, and even just for myself on lazy Sunday afternoons. It was a versatile dish that could be enjoyed hot or cold, as a main course or a side dish.

As I continued to cook and experiment in the kitchen, I realized that recipes were more than just a list of ingredients and instructions. They were a way to connect with loved ones, to create memories, and to express creativity. Each dish I made, including the Vegetable Rice Bake, was a reflection of my own journey as a cook and the influences of those who came before me.

And so, whenever I make the Vegetable Rice Bake, I am reminded of my grandmother and the joy she found in sharing her love of cooking with others. I am grateful for the recipes she passed down to me and the inspiration she instilled in me to always keep exploring new flavors and techniques in the kitchen.

As I finish the last bite of my Vegetable Rice Bake, I can't help but smile. Cooking truly is a labor of love, and I am grateful to have learned that lesson from the best teacher of all – my grandmother.