Cheesy Zucchini Rice Casserole: A Delicious and Nutritious Dish

This zucchini and rice casserole is a perfect combination of flavors and textures. It's a cheesy, creamy, and comforting dish loaded with healthy vegetables. The zucchini adds a fresh and slightly sweet taste, while the rice provides a hearty base. Baked to perfection with a golden crust, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser that can be enjoyed as a main course or a side dish. Whether you're a vegetarian or simply looking for a satisfying meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked rice
• 3 medium zucchini, thinly sliced
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a casserole dish.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until translucent and fragrant.
3. Add the thinly sliced zucchini to the skillet and cook until tender, about 5 minutes. Season with dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, sautéed zucchini mixture, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, sour cream, and chopped fresh parsley. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
5. Transfer the mixture to the greased casserole dish and spread it out evenly. Top with an additional sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling.
7. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Interesting Facts