Cheesy Zucchini and Rice Side Dish You Can Make in Minutes
A light and vibrant summer dish combining tender zucchini, fluffy rice, and fresh herbs, enhanced with olive oil, lemon zest, and optional Parmesan or nuts.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
1 1/2 cups long-grain rice
3 cups water or vegetable broth
2 medium zucchini, diced
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
1 teaspoon lemon zest
Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan or pine nuts
Instructions
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Cook rice in water or broth until tender, then fluff.
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Sauté onion in olive oil until translucent. Add garlic and cook briefly.
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Add diced zucchini and cook until tender, 5–7 minutes.
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Combine cooked rice with zucchini mixture.
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Stir in fresh herbs, lemon zest, and optional Parmesan or nuts.
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Adjust seasoning as needed and serve warm.
Notes
Do not overcook zucchini to maintain texture.
Use fresh herbs and lemon zest for bright flavor.
Optional nuts or cheese add richness.