Cheesy Zucchini Rice Recipe

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Cook Time: 22 minutes

This cheesy zucchini rice recipe brings a rich, creamy flavor reminiscent of risotto but with less effort. Its perfect for using up extra vegetables and sneaking in some healthy greens. Heres how to prepare it:

Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons butter, softened, divided
• cup panko bread crumbs (optional)
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup long grain white rice
• teaspoon salt
• 1 pinch cayenne pepper
• 2 cups shredded zucchini
• cup shredded Gruyere cheese
• 2 teaspoons chopped fresh marjoram or oregano

Directions

1. Step 1: Start by gathering all of your ingredients, making sure everything is prepped and ready to go.
2. Step 2: To make the crumb topping, melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the panko breadcrumbs and cook, stirring occasionally, until theyre golden and crispy, about 2 minutes. Remove the panko from the pan and set aside.
3. Step 3: In the same saucepan, add the chicken broth and bring it to a boil.
4. Step 4: Once the broth is boiling, add the rice, salt, and cayenne pepper. Stir to combine, then cover the saucepan, reduce the heat, and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
5. Step 5: Gently fold in the shredded zucchini, Gruyere cheese, chopped marjoram (or oregano), and the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Stir carefully to combine, then cover the saucepan and let it stand for 5 minutes.
6. Step 6: Finally, sprinkle the toasted panko crumbs on top of the rice before serving, if you made the optional topping.

Test Kitchen Tips

• This cheesy zucchini rice pairs wonderfully with any roasted or grilled meat.
• If you prefer not to use Gruyere cheese, Swiss cheese or white cheddar are great substitutes. Avoid yellow cheddar as it may change the texture.
• This dish makes for a great side at dinner parties! You can easily reheat it in the oven once youve arrived at your destination.

How to Store Cheesy Zucchini Rice

Store any leftover cheesy zucchini rice in an airtight in the refrigerator for up to four days. When reheating, add a bit of water to prevent the rice from drying out. You can microwave or heat it in the oven for best results.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 942
• Total Fat: 65g (83% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 38g (192% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 195mg (65% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 3797mg (165% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrates: 57g (21% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 5g (17% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 8g
• Protein: 37g (73% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 37mg (41% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 1002mg (77% Daily Value)
• Iron: 4mg (25% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 1010mg (21% Daily Value)

The History of Cheesy Zucchini Rice

Cheesy zucchini rice is a modern take on traditional vegetable and rice dishes that have existed for centuries across Europe and North America. While rice-based casseroles were common in the mid-20th century, the addition of zucchini and rich cheeses like Gruyere became popular in the 1970s as home cooks began experimenting with lighter, vegetable-forward meals. The dish reflects a fusion of comfort food and seasonal produce, making it both hearty and fresh.

Regional Characteristics

This dish is particularly associated with American cuisine, especially in regions with abundant summer squash like the Midwest and the South. In these areas, zucchini is often grown locally and incorporated into everyday cooking. The use of Gruyere cheese adds a European twist, hinting at French and Swiss influences, while the combination with panko breadcrumbs demonstrates a nod to modern American culinary creativity.

Differences from Similar Dishes

Cheesy zucchini rice is often compared to risotto or other rice casseroles. Unlike risotto, this dish does not require constant stirring or slow, gradual addition of liquid. Its texture is lighter, and the shredded zucchini contributes moisture and flavor without the creaminess of traditional risotto. Compared to cheesy cauliflower or broccoli rice casseroles, zucchini rice maintains a delicate balance of tenderness and subtle sweetness, highlighting the vegetable rather than overpowering it with cheese.

Common Serving Occasions

Cheesy zucchini rice is usually served as a side dish alongside roasted or grilled meats, fish, or poultry. It is particularly popular in summer months when zucchini is in season, and it often appears at family dinners, holiday gatherings, and casual potlucks. Its versatility also makes it suitable for brunch, especially when paired with light salads or egg dishes.

Interesting Facts

• Zucchini was first introduced to the United States by Italian immigrants in the early 20th century, and it quickly became a staple in American home cooking.
• The dish can be easily adapted for vegetarian diets by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Gruyere cheese, originally from Switzerland, melts beautifully without becoming stringy, making it ideal for creamy rice dishes.
• The crumb topping, often made with panko, adds a crunchy texture that contrasts with the soft, cheesy rice, a technique borrowed from classic gratins.
• Some variations include additional herbs such as thyme or parsley, which can subtly change the flavor profile while maintaining the dish's signature richness.

Overall, cheesy zucchini rice combines simplicity, flavor, and seasonal produce in a way that makes it both a comforting and elegant dish. Its history and evolution reflect broader trends in American home cooking, emphasizing fresh ingredients, ease of preparation, and inventive flavor combinations.

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