In the world of home cooking, the quest for dishes that deliver both nutrition and comfort often leads us to the humble zucchini. This versatile vegetable is the star of the show in this delightful recipe for a zucchini casserole accompanied by rice and vermicelli. The dish balances the subtle flavors of zucchini with rich cheeses and aromatic seasonings, making it a perfect choice for a family dinner or a special weekend meal.
Ingredients
- 3 zucchinis, thinly sliced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- Salt, to taste
- 70g (about 1/2 cup) Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 egg
- 180g (about 1 cup) Philadelphia or ricotta cheese
- 140g (about 1 cup) breadcrumbs
- Chives, chopped
- Black pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for cooking and drizzling
- 100g (about 1/2 cup) vermicelli
- 2 cups rice (about 400g)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 3 cups water (about 600ml)
- Vegetable or chicken broth
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Prepare Zucchini:
- Place zucchini slices in a colander, sprinkle with salt, and let sit for 15 minutes to draw out moisture.
- After 15 minutes, squeeze the excess water from the zucchini slices.
- Mix Casserole Ingredients:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, egg, Philadelphia or ricotta cheese, breadcrumbs, chopped chives, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Add the squeezed zucchini slices to the bowl and stir until everything is evenly coated.
- Bake the Casserole:
- Transfer the zucchini mixture to a baking dish greased with olive oil.
- Bake for 30 minutes or until the top is golden and crispy.
- Cook Vermicelli and Rice:
- While the casserole bakes, heat a pan with olive oil and cook the vermicelli until golden brown.
- In a separate pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add rice and stir to coat with butter.
- Pour in water and add enough broth to flavor the rice. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
- Serve:
- Serve the baked zucchini casserole alongside the rice and golden vermicelli.
- Drizzle olive oil over the vermicelli for added flavor.
Cooking Time
- Total Time: 55 minutes (15 minutes prep, 30 minutes cooking, 10 minutes for vermicelli and rice)
Cooking the Accompaniments
No casserole is complete without its side dishes, and this recipe pairs the zucchini centerpiece with golden vermicelli and fluffy rice. The vermicelli, pan-fried in olive oil until crisp, offers a delightful crunch and a beautiful golden color that is visually appealing. The rice, cooked with butter and broth, becomes wonderfully fragrant and tender, making it the perfect base to balance the flavors of the casserole.
Serving Suggestions
To serve, the zucchini casserole is dished up alongside the rice and vermicelli, creating a meal that is not only filling but also appealing to the eyes. A final drizzle of olive oil over the vermicelli can add an extra layer of richness and enhance the mouthfeel of the dish.
Nutritional Value
Zucchini is low in calories but high in essential nutrients, including vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium, making this casserole a healthy choice. The cheeses provide calcium and protein, while the whole grains in the rice ensure that the dish is hearty and satisfying. This combination makes the zucchini casserole both a nutritious and delicious option for any meal.
Why It’s Loved
What makes this recipe particularly beloved is its versatility and ease of preparation. It’s suitable for both vegetarians and those simply looking to increase their vegetable intake. Furthermore, it can be easily adapted; for example, different types of cheese or herbs can be used to suit individual tastes.
Conclusion
This zucchini casserole with rice and vermicelli recipe stands out as a testament to the power of simple ingredients coming together to create a dish that is greater than the sum of its parts. It’s a meal that offers comfort, health, and the pleasure of a home-cooked meal, perfect for gathering around the table with loved ones. Whether you are a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe promises to deliver satisfaction and a burst of flavors that will make it a beloved addition to your cooking repertoire.
