Zucchini Rice Tartlets

Zucchini Rice Tartlets - A Delicious Vegetarian Recipe from USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 16 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Zucchini Rice Tartlets are a delicious and savory appetizer that is perfect for any occasion. These tartlets are filled with a flavorful mixture of rice, cheese, and vegetables, all baked in a crispy tartlet shell. The addition of zucchini adds a fresh and light touch to these tasty treats.

History

The origins of Zucchini Rice Tartlets are not well-documented, but it is likely that this recipe was created as a way to use up leftover rice and vegetables. The combination of zucchini, rice, and cheese is a classic one that has been enjoyed by many for years.

Ingredients

0.67 cup finely diced onion
3 tbsp finely diced red pepper
2 tsp butter or margarine
0.67 cup cooked rice, cooled
0.33 cup grated parmesan cheese
2 tsp chopped fresh parsley
2 eggs, beaten
2 tbsp heavy cream
0.13 tsp hot pepper sauce
16 pre-baked prepared tartlet pastry shells
0.5 small zucchini, cut into 0.13 inch slices, quartered

How to prepare

In a small skillet, cook the onion and pepper in butter until they are tender crisp.
Combine the cooked onion and pepper with rice, cheese, parsley, eggs, cream, and pepper sauce.
Spoon approximately 1.5 tbsp of the batter into each tartlet shell and arrange zucchini slices on top.
Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 20 to 25 minutes or until the tartlets are set.
Remove the tartlets from the molds.
Serve the tartlets warm or at room temperature.

Variations

Add cooked chicken or shrimp to the filling 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 mushrooms or spinach, for a unique twist on this recipe.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the onion and pepper until they are tender crisp to ensure that they are not too crunchy in the final dish.

- Pre-baking the tartlet shells before filling them helps to ensure that they are crispy and fully cooked.

- Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite vegetables or herbs for a unique twist on this recipe.

Serving Suggestions

These Zucchini Rice Tartlets are perfect for serving as an appetizer at a party or as a light lunch or dinner. Pair them with a side salad or soup for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to pre-bake the tartlet shells before filling them to ensure that they are fully cooked and crispy.

- Make sure to cook the onion and pepper until they are tender crisp to avoid a crunchy texture in the final dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use butter instead of margarine in this recipe.

- Feel free to use any type of cooked rice that you have on hand.

- Substitute heavy cream with milk or half-and-half for a lighter version of this dish.

Make Ahead Tips

These Zucchini Rice Tartlets can be assembled ahead of time and baked just before serving. Simply prepare the filling and fill the tartlet shells, then cover and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Presentation Ideas

Serve these Zucchini Rice Tartlets on a platter garnished with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of grated cheese for a beautiful presentation. You can also arrange them on individual plates for a more elegant look.

Pairing Recommendations

These Zucchini Rice Tartlets pair well with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. They also go well with a light and refreshing salad or soup.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Zucchini Rice Tartlets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Zucchini Rice Tartlets contains approximately 150 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Zucchini Rice Tartlets contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Zucchini Rice Tartlets contains approximately 8 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Zucchini Rice Tartlets contains approximately 5 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Zucchini is a good source of vitamins C and K, as well as minerals like potassium and manganese. The cheese in this recipe also provides calcium and vitamin D.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese) and eggs.

Summary

Zucchini Rice Tartlets are a balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. They are also a good source of vitamins and minerals, making them a nutritious choice for a snack or appetizer.

Summary

Zucchini Rice Tartlets are a delicious and nutritious appetizer that is perfect for any occasion. These tasty treats are filled with a flavorful mixture of rice, cheese, and vegetables, all baked in a crispy tartlet shell. Enjoy these tartlets warm or at room temperature for a delightful snack or light meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is one that will always be special to me. It was a sunny Saturday afternoon, and I was rummaging through an old box of recipe cards that belonged to my mother. As I flipped through the yellowed pages, my eyes landed on a card with the title "Zucchini Rice Tartlets" written in elegant cursive.

I was intrigued. I had never heard of such a dish before, but the combination of zucchini and rice sounded delicious. The card was stained and worn, a sign that it had been used many times before. As I read through the ingredients and instructions, memories flooded back to me.

I remembered my mother making these tartlets for special occasions, filling our home with the mouth-watering aroma of baked zucchini and rice. I recalled the joy on my father's face as he took the first bite, savoring the flavors that reminded him of his childhood in Italy.

I knew then that I had to recreate this recipe and share it with my family. I gathered the necessary ingredients and set to work in the kitchen, following the instructions on the card with care and precision.

The scent of sautéed onions and garlic filled the air as I cooked the zucchini and rice, the flavors mingling together in perfect harmony. I added a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and a dash of nutmeg, just as the recipe instructed.

As the tartlets baked in the oven, I watched with anticipation, my heart filled with nostalgia and excitement. When they emerged golden brown and crispy, I knew that I had succeeded in bringing back a piece of my family's history.

I set the tartlets on the table, their savory aroma drawing my loved ones to gather around. My grandchildren's eyes widened with curiosity as I explained the story behind the recipe, passing down a piece of our family's culinary heritage to the next generation.

The first bite was met with a chorus of murmurs and nods of approval. The flavors were just as I remembered – a perfect balance of savory and creamy, with a hint of sweetness from the zucchini.

As we enjoyed the tartlets together, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and satisfaction. The recipe had brought us all closer, connecting us to our past and creating new memories to cherish for years to come.

I knew then that this recipe would become a staple in our family, a dish to be shared and savored on special occasions and everyday gatherings alike. And as I watched my grandchildren reach for seconds, I knew that the legacy of the Zucchini Rice Tartlets would live on for generations to come.