This Baked Zucchini with Rice and Mushrooms is a flavorful and wholesome dish that’s perfect for any meal. The combination of zucchini, sweet pepper, onions, rice, mushrooms, and creamy sauce creates a delightful harmony of tastes and textures. Topped with melted cheese and served with a touch of parsley, this dish is sure to be a hit.
Ingredients
- 1 zucchini
- 1 sweet pepper
- 1 onion
- Salt to taste
- Ground black pepper to taste
- 100 grams rice
- 200 ml water
- 200 ml cream
- 150 grams mushrooms
- Olive oil
- A bunch of parsley (optional)
- 150 grams hard cheese
- Mayonnaise sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Wash and slice the zucchini into rounds or half-moons.
- Chop the sweet pepper and onion finely.
- Slice the mushrooms.
- Grate the hard cheese.
- Cook the Rice:
- In a saucepan, bring 200 ml of water to a boil. Add the rice, a pinch of salt, and reduce the heat to low. Cover and cook for about 15 minutes or until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed. Set aside.
- Cook the Vegetables:
- In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
- Add the chopped sweet pepper and sliced mushrooms. Cook until the vegetables are tender and the mushrooms release their moisture, about 5-7 minutes.
- Season with salt and ground black pepper to taste.
- Combine Rice and Vegetables:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice with the sautéed vegetables. Mix well.
- Prepare the Zucchini Base:
- Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
- Arrange the zucchini slices in a single layer to cover the bottom of the dish. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Assemble the Dish:
- Spread the rice and vegetable mixture evenly over the zucchini layer.
- Pour the cream evenly over the top, allowing it to seep through the rice mixture.
- Sprinkle the grated cheese evenly over the top of the dish.
- Add dollops of mayonnaise sauce on top of the cheese.
- Bake the Dish:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired.
- Serve warm and enjoy this delightful and nutritious dish.
Conclusion
This Baked Zucchini with Rice and Mushrooms is a comforting and delicious meal that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings. The combination of fresh vegetables, creamy sauce, and melted cheese makes this dish both hearty and satisfying. Enjoy this wholesome recipe with your loved ones and savor the wonderful flavors it has to offer!