This Easy Summer Squash Rice is a light and tasty side dish that combines fluffy rice with colorful summer squash. It’s perfect for those sunny days when you want something fresh!
Honestly, you can whip this up in no time, and it pairs so well with grilled meats! I love making it when I have a friend over; they always ask for seconds! 🌞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rice: Long-grain white rice like basmati or jasmine is perfect here. If you want a healthier option, try brown rice; just adjust the cooking time as it takes longer to cook.
Summer Squash & Zucchini: Small yellow summer squash gives a nice texture and flavor. If you can’t find it, green zucchini works well too! You can even swap these for bell peppers or carrots for variety.
Broth: Using chicken or vegetable broth enhances the flavor. If you prefer a lower-sodium version, opt for low-sodium broth or even water; just be cautious with added salt.
Herbs: Fresh basil is my favorite for this dish. However, you can use parsley, cilantro, or even dried Italian herbs if fresh isn’t available. Dried herbs are more potent, so use about a teaspoon.
How Can I Make Sure My Rice Turns Out Perfectly Fluffy?
To get that fluffy rice, rinsing it is essential! This removes excess starch, preventing stickiness. Here’s how to do it:
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water is clear, then drain well.
- When sautéing the rice with the veggies, let it cook for a minute or two to toast lightly; this adds flavor.
- Always use the ratio of 1 part rice to 2 parts broth when cooking. This ensures the rice cooks evenly and absorbs plenty of flavor.
Letting the cooked rice sit covered for a few minutes after cooking is also crucial. It allows the rice to finish cooking off the heat and helps it fluff up nicely!
Easy Summer Squash Rice Recipe for a Healthy Side
Ingredients you’ll need:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (e.g., basmati or jasmine)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small yellow summer squash, diced
- 1 small zucchini, diced (optional)
- 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika or smoked paprika
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil or parsley
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 20 minutes to cook, making the total time around 30 minutes! It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner, but impressive enough for guests too.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Rinse the Rice:
Start by rinsing the rice under cold water. This will help remove excess starch and keep the rice from getting gummy. Rinse until the water runs clear, then drain it well.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for about 2-3 minutes until they become soft and fragrant. This step is essential to build a flavorful base!
3. Cook the Vegetables:
Add in the diced summer squash, red bell pepper, and zucchini (if you’re using it). Cook for about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally, so everything cooks evenly and starts to soften up. The colors will be so vibrant!
4. Toast the Rice:
Now it’s time to add the rinsed rice. Stir it into the pan, mixing well to coat the rice with the oil and leftover veggie goodness. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to give the rice a little toast which will enhance the flavors.
5. Add the Broth and Spices:
Pour the broth into the pan along with salt, pepper, and paprika. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer gently for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and all the liquid is absorbed.
6. Let it Rest:
Once the rice has finished cooking, remove the pot from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. This helps the rice release steam and fluff up perfectly.
7. Fluff and Serve:
Use a fork to fluff the rice gently. Stir in the chopped fresh basil or parsley for that fresh touch. If you want, top it off with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
8. Enjoy!
Serve this colorful and healthy summer squash rice warm as a delightful side dish. It’s fantastic paired with grilled chicken, fish, or any of your favorite summer entrees!
Bon appétit! 🌼
FAQ About Easy Summer Squash Rice
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice works well, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time. Brown rice usually takes about 40-45 minutes to cook, so you’ll want to add more broth accordingly—about 2 1/2 cups for 1 cup of brown rice.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Yes, feel free to customize! You can add vegetables like corn, peas, or carrots. Just make sure to dice them into small pieces and adjust the cooking times slightly, depending on how tender you want them.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of broth or water and warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to prevent it from drying out.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes! Simply use vegetable broth and omit the Parmesan cheese, or use a vegan alternative. It will still taste delicious and be entirely plant-based!
