This Easy Summer Squash Rice is a delicious way to enjoy fresh veggies! With tender summer squash and fluffy rice, it comes together in no time, making it perfect for those busy days.
I love how simple this recipe is! Just sauté the squash, mix it with rice, and voilà! You have a tasty meal that feels light and lovely on warm days. Serve it with a smile! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Long-Grain White Rice: This rice gives the dish a fluffy texture. You can swap it for brown rice for a healthier option, but be sure to adjust cooking time since brown rice takes longer to cook.
Summer Squash: Yellow summer squash is great for its mild flavor. If you can’t find it, zucchini works just as well! Both add a nice color and texture to the dish.
Bell Pepper: I love using red bell peppers for their sweetness. You can use green peppers for a slightly different flavor or any color pepper you have on hand.
Vegetable Broth: This adds extra flavor to the rice. If you want a lighter dish, water is a fine substitute, or you can use chicken broth for a non-vegetarian option.
Herbs: Fresh basil or parsley gives the dish a fresh kick. If fresh herbs aren’t available, you can use dried herbs, though fresh is always best!
How to Cook Rice Without It Getting Sticky?
To achieve fluffy rice, rinse it under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch, which can make the rice sticky. Here’s how to cook it perfectly:
- Use a 2:1 ratio of liquid to rice (e.g., 2 cups broth for 1 cup rice).
- Bring the liquid to a boil, then add the rice and reduce the heat to low immediately.
- Cover and let it simmer without lifting the lid for about 15-18 minutes.
- Let it rest covered for 5 minutes after cooking, then fluff with a fork.
Following these steps will help ensure your rice turns out beautifully every time!
Easy Summer Squash Rice
Ingredients:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups vegetable broth or water
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium yellow summer squash, diced
- 1 medium zucchini, diced (optional)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 medium tomato, diced
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- Salt and ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh basil or parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Time Estimate:
This Easy Summer Squash Rice takes about 30 minutes to prepare, including cooking the rice and sautéing the veggies. It’s a quick and delightful dish that’s perfect for those busy summer days!
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Rice:
Start by rinsing the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch, preventing the rice from becoming sticky. Drain well after rinsing.
2. Cook the Rice:
In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth (or water) to a boil. Once boiling, stir in the rice. Reduce heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for about 15-18 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
While the rice is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then add the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add the Squash and Peppers:
Mix in the diced summer squash, zucchini (if using), and red bell pepper to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Incorporate Tomatoes and Seasoning:
Stir in the diced tomato and sprinkle in the dried oregano or Italian seasoning. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to soften the tomatoes and blend the flavors.
6. Combine Rice and Vegetables:
Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and add it to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Stir well to combine everything evenly, allowing the flavors to mingle.
7. Season and Finish:
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat the mixture through for about another minute before removing from heat. Finally, gently stir in the fresh basil or parsley for a burst of freshness.
8. Serve:
Serve your Easy Summer Squash Rice warm, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese if you’d like. Enjoy this vibrant dish that’s perfect for any summer meal!
This dish is light, colorful, and quick to prepare—perfect for an easy summer meal!
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it requires a longer cooking time. Follow the package instructions for water-to-rice ratio and cooking time, as brown rice typically takes about 40-45 minutes to cook.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
Feel free to get creative! You can add vegetables like corn, carrots, peas, or even spinach. Just ensure to chop them into small pieces so they cook evenly and incorporate well into the rice.
How Can 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, adding a splash of broth or water to help restore moisture.
Can I Make This Dish Vegan?
Absolutely! This recipe is already vegan if you skip the Parmesan cheese. You can also use a vegan cheese alternative if you want a cheesy flavor!
