Sure! Let’s dive into the delightful world of Summer Squash & Rice Gratin, a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends and family. 🌞🍲
Summer Squash & Rice Gratin Recipe
Overview:
- Name: Summer Squash & Rice Gratin
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Description: A hearty gratin dish featuring the freshness of summer squash, the nuttiness of rice, and the creamy richness of cheese.
Ingredients:
Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious dish:
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 3 tbsp | Olive oil |
| 1/2 tsp | Olive oil (for dish) |
| 1 | Onion, chopped |
| 2 | Zucchini, sliced |
| 2 cloves | Garlic, minced |
| 2 | Eggs |
| 2 cups | Gruyere cheese, grated |
| 1 cup | Medium grain rice |
| 1/2 cup | Arborio rice |
| 1/2 cup | Fresh parsley, chopped |
| 1 tbsp | Fresh thyme leaves |
| 1 tsp | Dried thyme |
| To taste | Salt and pepper |
| – | Bread crumbs |
Instructions:
Let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your Summer Squash & Rice Gratin:
-
Preheat the Oven:
- Begin by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius).
-
Prepare the Dish:
- Brush a 2-quart gratin dish or a shallow baking dish, such as a 13-by-9-inch Pyrex dish, with 1/2 teaspoon of olive oil. Set it aside for later.
-
Saute the Onion:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat in a large, heavy non-stick skillet.
- Add the chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until it becomes tender. This should take about 5 minutes.
-
Cook the Squash:
- To the skillet, add the sliced zucchini, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Cook everything together, stirring often, for about 8 to 10 minutes. You want the squash to be tender but still hold its shape.
-
Combine Ingredients:
- Remove the skillet from the heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs.
- Stir in the cooked squash and onions, grated Gruyere cheese, both types of rice, chopped parsley, fresh thyme leaves, and dried thyme.
- Taste the mixture and season with more salt and pepper if needed.
-
Assemble and Bake:
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the top with bread crumbs for a delicious crunch.
- Drizzle the remaining olive oil over the top.
-
Bake to Perfection:
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 45 minutes.
- The gratin should be firm to the touch and beautifully browned on top when it’s ready.
-
Serve and Enjoy:
- Once done, remove the gratin from the oven and let it cool on a rack for a few minutes.
- This dish can be served warm or cold, depending on your preference.
- It’s a delightful side dish or a standalone meal that captures the essence of summer flavors.
-
Advance Preparation:
- Need to plan ahead? No worries! This gratin can be made a day in advance.
- Simply prepare it as instructed, then tightly wrap and store it in the refrigerator.
- When you’re ready to serve, reheat it gently in the oven until warmed through.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 236.8
- Fat: 12.5g
- Saturated Fat: 3.4g
- Cholesterol: 80.9mg
- Sodium: 109.3mg
- Carbohydrates: 23.5g
- Fiber: 2.5g
- Sugar: 3.9g
- Protein: 8.9g
Serving Suggestions:
- This Summer Squash & Rice Gratin pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette.
- It also makes a fantastic side dish for grilled meats or roasted chicken.
- For a vegetarian feast, serve it alongside roasted vegetables or a hearty bean stew.
There you have it! A scrumptious Summer Squash & Rice Gratin recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Whether you’re savoring the flavors of summer or simply craving a comforting dish, this gratin delivers on taste and satisfaction. 🌿✨ Enjoy every delicious bite!
