Picture by home cooking
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Prep Time10 Mins
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Cook Time20 Mins
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Serving4
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View400
Savor the delicious combination of tender zucchini and fluffy rice in this Zesty Rice with Zucchini recipe. With a burst of flavors from aromatic herbs and zesty lemon, this dish is a perfect accompaniment to any meal or a stand-alone vegetarian delight. Whether you're looking for a side dish or a light main course, this recipe has you covered.
Ingredients
Nutrition
Per Serving
- Daily Value*
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Calories220
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Carbohydrates: 43g14%
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Protein: 4g8%
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Fat: 4g6%
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Saturated Fat: 0.5g3%
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Cholesterol: 0mg0%
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Fiber: 2g8%
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Sugars: 2g
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Vitamin A2%
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Vitamin C20%
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Calcium2%
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Iron8%
Tips and Recommendations:
- Feel free to add diced bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or a handful of spinach for extra color and flavor.
- Customize the dish by adding your favorite fresh herbs like basil or mint.
- Serve as a side dish with grilled chicken, fish, or tofu, or enjoy it as a light, vegetarian main course.
FAQs
1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can substitute brown rice, but it may require a longer cooking time and more liquid.
2. How can I make this dish more spicy?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the zucchini mixture for some heat.
Picture by jernejkitchen
Instructions
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Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
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1. Rinse the rice under cold running water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
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2. In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
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3. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent.
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4. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
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5. Add the diced zucchini to the skillet and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it begins to soften.
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6. Stir in the dried thyme and dried oregano, and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
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7. Add the rinsed rice to the skillet and stir to combine it with the zucchini and spices.
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8. Pour in the vegetable broth or water, then add the lemon zest and juice. Stir well.
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9. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
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10. Remove the skillet from heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes to steam the rice.
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11. Fluff the rice and zucchini mixture with a fork, ensuring the lemon zest and juice are evenly distributed.
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12. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves, if desired, before serving.