This zucchini rice casserole is a dinnertime lifesaver! It’s quick and easy to prepare, taking just 10 minutes to throw together, and can be enjoyed in under 30 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need a satisfying and nutritious meal without the hassle.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup rice
- 3 tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- Spices for vegetables (to taste)
- 1 carrot, grated
- 1 red pepper, chopped
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- Chives, chopped
- 200 g canned corn, drained
- 100 g cheddar cheese, grated
- 100 g mozzarella cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
- Salt (to taste)
- Black pepper (to taste)
- Vegetable fat (for greasing)
For the sauce:
- 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- 1 teaspoon sweet chili sauce
- Dill, chopped
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.
- Cook the rice according to package instructions.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, chopped vegetables (tomatoes, onion, garlic, carrot, red pepper, zucchini), chives, and canned corn. Add oregano, vegetable spices, salt, and black pepper to taste.
- Stir in the grated cheddar and mozzarella cheeses.
- Transfer the mixture to the greased baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter. Sprinkle the crumb topping over the casserole.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
- While the casserole bakes, prepare the sauce by combining Greek yogurt, mustard, sweet chili sauce, and chopped dill in a small bowl.
More Information:
This recipe is easily customizable! Feel free to add other vegetables you have on hand, such as peas, broccoli, or mushrooms. You can also experiment with different cheeses or use a pre-made cheese blend.
For a vegetarian option, simply omit the cheese or use a vegetarian cheese alternative.
Conclusion:
This zucchini rice casserole is a delicious and convenient way to get your daily dose of vegetables. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a potluck dish. With its cheesy, flavorful filling and crispy breadcrumb topping, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!