Delicious Broccoli and Rice Casserole: A Flavorful and Nutritious Meal

Transform simple ingredients into a mouthwatering casserole with this Broccoli and Rice recipe. By adding fresh broccoli to rice and combining it with a rich tomato sauce, vegetables, and cheese, you create a dish that’s not only nutritious but also incredibly satisfying. Perfect for a family dinner or a potluck, this casserole is easy to make and sure to impress.

Ingredients

For the Rice:

• 2 cups rice
• 2 cups water
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 3 tomatoes, diced
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon oregano
• 1.5 cups water

For the Broccoli:

• 1 broccoli head, cut into florets
• 2 tablespoons milk
• Salt, to taste

For the Vegetable Mix:

• Olive oil
• 3 red bell peppers, diced
• 1 can canned corn, drained
• Tomato sauce (amount to taste)
• Cheese (your choice, shredded)
• Mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 3 tablespoons butter, melted

For the Sauce:

• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 carrot, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 cup water
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• Italian herbs, to taste
• 1 teaspoon sugar

Instructions

Prepare the Rice:

1. Cook the Rice:
   • In a large pot, combine 2 cups of rice, 2 cups of water, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer until the rice is cooked and the water is absorbed.
2. Add Vegetables and Seasoning:
   • In a separate pan, sauté the diced tomatoes, chopped onion, and minced garlic in a little olive oil until soft.
   • Add the cooked vegetables to the rice along with 2 tablespoons of vegetable broth, 1 tablespoon of oregano, and 1.5 cups of water. Mix well and let it simmer for a few minutes.

Prepare the Broccoli:

1. Cook the Broccoli:
   • Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and cook for 2-3 minutes until tender but still bright green. Drain and set aside.
   • Toss the cooked broccoli with 2 tablespoons of milk and a pinch of salt.

Combine and Bake:

1. Prepare the Casserole:
   • Preheat your oven to 190°C (380°F).
   • In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice mixture, broccoli, diced red bell peppers, and canned corn. Mix in tomato sauce and shredded cheese to taste.
   • Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
2. Top with Cheese and Breadcrumbs:
   • Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top.
   • Mix 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs with 3 tablespoons of melted butter and sprinkle this mixture over the cheese.
3. Bake:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy.

Prepare the Sauce:

1. Sauté Vegetables:
   • In a saucepan, sauté the finely chopped onion and carrot in butter until soft.
2. Make the Roux:
   • Add 2 tablespoons of flour to the vegetables and cook, stirring constantly, for about 1 minute.
3. Add Tomato Paste and Water:
   • Stir in 1 tablespoon of tomato paste and 1 cup of water. Mix thoroughly until smooth.
4. Season the Sauce:
   • Add salt, black pepper, Italian herbs, and 1 teaspoon of sugar. Let the sauce simmer for another 3 minutes.

Serve:

1. Serve the Casserole:
   • Once the casserole is done baking, let it cool slightly before serving.
   • Serve with the prepared sauce on the side or drizzled over the top.

More Information About the Recipe

This Broccoli and Rice Casserole is a hearty and nutritious dish that’s perfect for any meal. The combination of vegetables, rice, and cheese creates a delicious and filling meal that’s easy to make and full of flavor. The rich tomato sauce adds an extra layer of taste that complements the casserole perfectly.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Despite the number of ingredients, this recipe is straightforward and easy to follow.
• Nutritious: Packed with vegetables and whole grains, this casserole is a healthy choice.
• Delicious: The combination of flavors and textures makes this dish incredibly satisfying.
• Versatile: Can be adapted with different vegetables and cheeses to suit your taste.

Nutritional Benefits

• Broccoli: High in vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants.
• Rice: A good source of energy and essential vitamins and minerals.
• Tomatoes: Rich in vitamins A and C, and antioxidants like lycopene.
• Cheese: Provides calcium and protein, essential for bone health.

Conclusion

This Broccoli and Rice Casserole is a delicious and easy meal that you can enjoy any day of the week. With its rich flavors and healthy ingredients, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Try it today and discover how simple and satisfying a home-cooked meal can be. Bon appétit!