This Easy Summer Squash Rice is a tasty and colorful dish that’s perfect for warm days. With fresh squash, fluffy rice, and light seasonings, it’s refreshing and healthy!
I love making this when I’m short on time and craving something good. Just toss everything in a pan, and in no time, you’re enjoying a bright meal! Perfect with grilled chicken or as a side.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This brings a lovely flavor to the dish. You could replace it with avocado oil, which has a high smoke point, or even butter for a richer taste.
Rice: Long-grain white rice is great, but you can swap it for brown rice or quinoa for a healthier option. Just adjust the cooking time as brown rice takes longer to cook.
Vegetable Broth: Using low-sodium broth enhances flavor without adding too much salt. If you don’t have broth, water or homemade broth can also work.
Summer Squash & Zucchini: You can mix in other veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or even spinach. Fresh herbs like dill or chives are also fantastic for flavor!
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a nice cheesy finish. If you’re dairy-free, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
How Do I Get Perfectly Cooked Rice?
Getting rice just right is key to this dish! Follow these steps to ensure perfectly cooked rice:
- Always rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch for fluffier rice.
- When toasting, ensure the heat is medium. This step adds depth to the flavor.
- Once you add the broth and bring it to a boil, do not lift the lid when simmering. Trapped steam aids in even cooking.
- Letting rice sit covered after cooking is crucial. This helps it finish cooking and absorb any remaining moisture.
These tips will help you cook rice that pairs beautifully with summer veggies, making your meal even more delightful!
Easy Summer Squash Rice Recipe for Healthy Meals
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (such as basmati or jasmine), rinsed
- 2 cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 medium yellow squash, diced
- 1 medium zucchini (green summer squash), diced
- 1 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- ½ teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika or mild chili powder (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or basil, chopped
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 25 minutes to cook, for a total of just 35 minutes from start to finish. In no time, you’ll have a fresh and healthy summer dish on your table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Once hot, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent. This will create a delicious base for your dish!
2. Add Garlic:
Add the minced garlic to the pan and cook for another 30 seconds, or until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
3. Toast the Rice:
Stir in the rinsed rice and let it cook for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently to lightly toast the rice. This step adds a lovely flavor!
4. Add Broth and Season:
Pour in the broth and add the salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if you’re using it. Bring everything to a boil.
5. Cook the Rice:
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This allows the rice to cook through without losing moisture.
6. Mix in the Veggies:
After 10 minutes, add the diced yellow squash, zucchini, and red bell pepper to the pan. Gently stir to combine everything, then cover and cook for another 8-10 minutes. The rice should be tender, and the vegetables should be vibrant and cooked but still slightly crisp.
7. Let It Rest:
Remove the pan from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. This extra time allows the flavors to meld together!
8. Fluff and Add Finishing Touches:
After letting it rest, fluff the rice with a fork. Stir in the chopped fresh herbs and grated Parmesan cheese. This adds a nice, cheesy twist to your dish!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Easy Summer Squash Rice warm, garnished with more Parmesan and herbs as desired. This dish is not only healthy but also bursting with fresh flavors!
This dish offers a fresh, wholesome take on a rice side that’s packed with summer veggies—perfect for a healthy meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Substitute Brown Rice for White Rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice is a great healthier alternative but will require a longer cooking time—about 40-50 minutes. Make sure to adjust the amount of broth as well, using about 2.5 cups for 1 cup of brown rice.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
You can customize this dish with a variety of vegetables! Try adding diced carrots, peas, or spinach. Just remember to adjust cooking times for anything that takes longer to cook to ensure everything is tender.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth to help restore moisture and flavor!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes! Simply omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute it with a vegan cheese option to keep it dairy-free. You can also add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
