Autumn Leaves Vegetable-Rice Casserole
This delightful Autumn Leaves Vegetable-Rice Casserole presents a vivid array of colors reminiscent of the stunning foliage that graces the landscape during the autumn months. With the perfect blend of fresh summer squash, tomatoes, and savory herbs, this dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a wholesome and satisfying option for your dining table. The beauty of this recipe is that it can be enjoyed year-round, as long as you can find summer squash at your local grocery store. The preparation time is minimal, making it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with family and friends. Just keep in mind that the cooking time specified does not account for any additional time needed to prepare rice if you are not using leftover cooked rice.
Recipe Information
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Cook Time | 25 minutes |
| Prep Time | 5 minutes |
| Total Time | 30 minutes |
| Recipe Category | Rice |
| Servings | 6 |
| Calories | 366.3 kcal |
| Rating | 5 stars (4 reviews) |
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Onion | 2 (medium, diced) |
| Tomatoes | 1 (large, chopped) |
| Butter | 6 tablespoons |
| Flour | 1/4 cup |
| Chicken bouillon | 1/4 cup (dissolved in water) |
| Dried basil | 2 teaspoons |
| Dried parsley | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Pepper | 1 teaspoon |
| Cooked rice | 1 cup |
| Parmesan cheese | 1 cup (shredded) |
| Summer squash | 3 1/2 to 4 cups (sliced) |
Nutritional Information
| Nutritional Component | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Total Fat | 17.6 g |
| Saturated Fat | 10.7 g |
| Cholesterol | 47.4 mg |
| Sodium | 656.8 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 45.4 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.8 g |
| Sugars | 5.8 g |
| Protein | 7.7 g |
Instructions
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Preheat the Oven: Begin your culinary adventure by preheating your oven to a cozy 350°F (175°C). This will ensure the perfect baking environment for your casserole.
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Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the diced onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, which usually takes about 3-4 minutes. Next, incorporate the sliced summer squash and chopped tomatoes into the skillet, continuing to sauté until the vegetables are tender, roughly 5-7 minutes. The vibrant colors of these ingredients will add a visual appeal that is as inviting as it is delicious.
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Prepare the Roux: In a separate saucepan, melt 1/4 cup of butter over low heat. Once melted, gradually whisk in the flour to create a roux, stirring constantly until the mixture is smooth and bubbly. This should take about 1-2 minutes, and it will serve as the thickening agent for your casserole.
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Combine the Broth: Gradually pour in the dissolved chicken bouillon while stirring continuously. Continue to cook until the mixture thickens significantly, which will take an additional 3-4 minutes. The aroma of the cooked roux will fill your kitchen, setting the stage for the deliciousness to come.
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Add Cream and Seasonings: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in your choice of cream (heavy cream or half-and-half works well) along with the dried basil, dried parsley, and pepper. This fragrant mixture adds a depth of flavor that complements the fresh vegetables beautifully.
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Incorporate the Rice and Vegetables: Gently fold the sautéed vegetables and cooked rice into the creamy mixture, ensuring everything is well combined. The creamy base should envelop the vegetables and rice, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
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Transfer to Casserole Dish: Pour the entire mixture into a greased 2-quart casserole dish, spreading it evenly. This step is crucial, as it ensures even cooking and browning.
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Top with Cheese: Generously sprinkle the shredded Parmesan cheese over the top of the casserole. This not only adds a delightful cheesy crust but also enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.
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Bake to Perfection: Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until it is bubbly and heated through. You may want to keep an eye on it towards the end to ensure the cheese doesn’t over-brown; it should have a lovely golden hue that invites everyone to dig in.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once baked to perfection, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish is fantastic as a main course or as a side dish accompanying your favorite protein. The vibrant colors and comforting flavors are sure to make this Autumn Leaves Vegetable-Rice Casserole a hit at your table.
This delightful dish is not only nutritious but also embodies the spirit of the season, making it perfect for gatherings and family meals alike. The combination of fresh vegetables, creamy sauce, and cheesy topping is sure to warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds. Enjoy every bite of this wholesome and visually appealing casserole!
