This Parmesan Zucchini Rice is a fresh and flavorful side dish that’s easy to prepare and pairs well with a variety of main courses. Made with shredded zucchini, Parmesan cheese, a touch of lemon, and fresh dill, it brings a bright, creamy twist to traditional rice. Perfect for summer meals or when you want a veggie-packed side that’s both comforting and light, this dish can be ready in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon oil (or butter)
- 1 cup onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, chopped
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 2 cups water (or vegetable broth for extra flavor)
- 2 cups zucchini, shredded
- 1/4 cup Parmigiano Reggiano (Parmesan), grated
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (or 1/2 teaspoon dried dill)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
- In a medium saucepan, warm the oil or butter over medium heat.
- Incorporate the diced onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and continue to cook for an additional minute, or until aromatic.
- Cook the Rice:
- Add the rice to the saucepan, stirring well to coat it in the oil and onion mixture.
- Pour in the water or vegetable broth, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
- Cover and let it simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Add the Zucchini:
- Once the rice is cooked, add the shredded zucchini, stirring well to combine.
- Allow the zucchini to warm through for 2-3 minutes.
- Incorporate the Seasonings and Cheese:
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, lemon zest, and dill.
- Mix well until the cheese is melted and everything is evenly combined.
- Serve:
- Use a fork to fluff the rice, then transfer it to a serving dish.
- Garnish with extra dill or Parmesan if desired. Serve warm.
Conclusion
This Parmesan Zucchini Rice is a wonderful blend of creamy, cheesy goodness with a hint of lemon and dill, making it a light but satisfying side dish. It’s easy to make, flavorful, and pairs well with a variety of proteins or as a standalone dish for a lighter meal. Enjoy the fresh flavors and creamy texture in every bite!
Creamy Parmesan Zucchini Rice with Fresh Dill and Lemon
A creamy rice dish made with shredded zucchini,Parmesan, and fresh lemon, this Parmesan Zucchini Rice is a quick, flavorfulside perfect for pairing with any meal.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon oil or butter
- 1 cup onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic chopped
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth for extra flavor
- 2 cups zucchini shredded
- 1/4 cup Parmigiano Reggiano Parmesan, grated
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill chopped (or 1/2 teaspoon dried dill)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
- In a medium saucepan, warm the oil or butter over medium heat.
- Incorporate the diced onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and continue to cook for an additional minute, or until aromatic.
Cook the Rice:
- Add the rice to the saucepan, stirring well to coat it in the oil and onion mixture.
- Pour in the water or vegetable broth, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
- Cover and let it simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
Add the Zucchini:
- Once the rice is cooked, add the shredded zucchini, stirring well to combine.
- Allow the zucchini to warm through for 2-3 minutes.
- Incorporate the Seasonings and Cheese:
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, lemon zest, and dill.
- Mix well until the cheese is melted and everything is evenly combined.
Serve:
- Use a fork to fluff the rice, then transfer it to a serving dish.
- Garnish with extra dill or Parmesan if desired. Serve warm.