Zucchini Rice Squares

Zucchini Rice Squares Recipe - Parmesan, Mozzarella, Hot Pepper

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 35 minutes | Servings: 6 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Zucchini Rice Squares are a delicious and savory dish that combines the flavors of zucchini, rice, and cheese into a satisfying meal or side dish. This recipe is perfect for those looking for a vegetarian option that is both flavorful and filling.

History

The origins of Zucchini Rice Squares are not well-documented, but it is likely that this recipe was created as a way to use up an abundance of zucchini during the summer months when this vegetable is in season. The combination of zucchini and rice is a classic pairing that has been enjoyed in various cuisines around the world for centuries.

Ingredients

1 tbsp butter or margarine
1 cup chopped onion
1 lb (454 g) zucchini, cut into 0.25 inch slices (3.5 cups)
1 cup uncooked rice
1 can (14.5 oz or 411 g) chicken broth
0.5 cup grated parmesan cheese
0.25 cup chopped fresh parsley
2 eggs, beaten
0.13 tsp hot pepper sauce
1 cup (4 oz or 113 g) shredded mozzarella cheese

How to prepare

In a 3 qt (2.84 liter) saucepan, cook the onion in butter over medium heat until it becomes transparent.
Add the zucchini, rice, and broth to the saucepan. Bring it to a boil and stir it once or twice.
Reduce the heat, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for 15 minutes or until the rice becomes tender and the liquid is absorbed.
In a separate bowl, combine Parmesan cheese, parsley, eggs, and pepper sauce. Add this mixture to the cooked rice.
Pour the mixture into a buttered 8- or 9-inch square pan. Top it with mozzarella cheese.
Bake the dish at 350°F (177°C) for 15 to 20 minutes.
Allow it to cool, then cut it into 2-inch squares.

Variations

Add cooked and crumbled sausage or ground beef for a meatier version of this dish.
Use different types of cheese such as cheddar, Swiss, or feta for a different flavor profile.
Add herbs like thyme, oregano, or basil for added depth of flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the rice until it is tender and the liquid is absorbed to ensure that the dish has the right texture.

- You can customize this recipe by adding other vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach.

- For a more indulgent dish, you can top the Zucchini Rice Squares with crumbled bacon or diced ham before baking.

Serving Suggestions

Zucchini Rice Squares can be served as a main dish with a side salad or as a side dish to accompany grilled chicken or fish. They can also be served as an appetizer at a party or gathering.

Cooking Techniques

The key cooking techniques for this recipe include sautéing the onions, simmering the rice with the zucchini and broth, and baking the dish until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use olive oil instead of margarine for a healthier option.

- Brown rice or quinoa can be used instead of white rice for a nuttier flavor and added fiber.

- Any type of hard cheese can be used in place of Parmesan or mozzarella.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the Zucchini Rice Squares up to a day in advance and refrigerate them until ready to bake. This makes it a great option for meal prep or entertaining.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Zucchini Rice Squares on a platter garnished with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color. You can also drizzle them with balsamic glaze or sprinkle with red pepper flakes for added flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Zucchini Rice Squares pair well with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. They also go well with a light and refreshing salad with a lemon vinaigrette dressing.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Zucchini Rice Squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (177°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Zucchini Rice Squares contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Zucchini Rice Squares contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Zucchini Rice Squares contains approximately 10 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Zucchini Rice Squares contains approximately 12 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Zucchini is a good source of vitamins C and K, as well as minerals like potassium and manganese. This dish also contains calcium and iron from the cheese and parsley.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese and butter) and eggs.

Summary

Zucchini Rice Squares are a nutritious dish that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. The zucchini and parsley add vitamins and minerals to the dish, making it a healthy option for a meal or side dish.

Summary

Zucchini Rice Squares are a versatile and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or side dish. With a combination of zucchini, rice, and cheese, this recipe is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately drawn to it. It was a hot summer day and I was at the local farmer's market, browsing through the fresh produce and chatting with the vendors. As I passed by one particular stand, a friendly elderly woman caught my eye and struck up a conversation with me. She was selling a variety of vegetables, including some beautiful zucchinis that caught my attention.

I told her how much I loved zucchinis and she smiled and said, "Have you ever tried making Zucchini Rice Squares? It's a family recipe that has been passed down for generations." Intrigued, I asked her for the recipe and she gladly shared it with me. She told me that her grandmother had learned it from a friend many years ago and it had become a beloved dish in their family ever since.

I went home that day with a bag full of zucchinis and a newfound excitement to try out this new recipe. As I chopped, grated, and mixed the ingredients together, I could almost feel the presence of the generations of women who had made this dish before me. It was a simple recipe, but the flavors and textures came together beautifully to create a dish that was both comforting and delicious.

The first time I made Zucchini Rice Squares, I knew it would become a staple in my own family. Over the years, I have made it for countless gatherings, potlucks, and family dinners. Each time I serve it, I think back to that hot summer day at the farmer's market and the kind woman who shared her family recipe with me.

As I continued to make Zucchini Rice Squares, I started to experiment with different variations and additions to the recipe. I added a sprinkle of fresh herbs from my garden, a handful of toasted nuts for crunch, and even a dollop of creamy goat cheese for extra richness. Each time I tweaked the recipe, it became even more delicious and beloved by my family and friends.

One day, I decided to enter my Zucchini Rice Squares in a local cooking competition. I was nervous but excited to share my family recipe with a wider audience. As the judges tasted my dish, I held my breath, waiting for their verdict. To my delight, they loved it and awarded me first place in the competition. I was overjoyed and proud to have my recipe recognized in such a way.

From that day on, my Zucchini Rice Squares became known throughout the community as a must-try dish. I received countless requests for the recipe and even started teaching cooking classes to share my love for this dish with others. It brought me great joy to see people making and enjoying my family recipe in their own homes.

As I look back on the journey of how I learned to make Zucchini Rice Squares, I am filled with gratitude for the kind woman at the farmer's market who shared her family recipe with me. It has brought me so much joy and connected me to a long line of women who have passed down their culinary traditions through the generations. I hope that my own grandchildren will one day make this dish and feel the same sense of pride and connection to their family's past.

So if you ever find yourself with an abundance of zucchinis and a craving for a delicious and comforting dish, I urge you to try making Zucchini Rice Squares. You never know, it just might become a beloved family recipe in your own home, passed down through the generations for years to come.