Creamy Parmesan Zucchini Rice with Fresh Dill and Lemon

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine Mediterranean-inspired
Servings 4
Calories 320 kcal

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.
Keyword Parmesan Zucchini Rice

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