Garlic Zucchini Rice Recipe

Hello and welcome to this flavorful recipe for garlic zucchini rice! This dish is perfect for anyone who loves the savory taste of garlic, the earthy flavor of zucchini, and the satisfying texture of rice. Whether you’re looking to make a quick and delicious weeknight dinner or just want to try something new, this recipe is sure to impress. So, let’s get started! We’ve made this garlic zucchini rice recipe easy to follow 👨‍🍳. If you’re looking for our favorite rice cookers to make this recipe, check out our list of top rice cookers here.

Ingredients

• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups water
• 1 large garlic clove, minced
• 1 medium zucchini, chopped
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Bring 2 cups of water to a boil in a medium pot. Add salt (1/2 tsp) and 1 cup of long-grain white rice to the pot. Reduce the heat to a low and let it simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the water has been absorbed. When done, use a fork to fluff the rice and then set it aside.
2. Place a large skillet over medium heat and add 2 tbsp of olive oil. When the oil gets hot, add 1 minced garlic clove to the skillet and cook it for 1 minute while stirring occasionally.
3. Add 1 medium chopped zucchini to the skillet and continue cooking for 5-7 minutes, stirring every once in a while, until the zucchini is tender and lightly browned.
4. Add the cooked rice to the skillet and stir everything together with the zucchini and garlic. Cook everything for 2-3 more minutes until everything is heated through.
5. Finally, season the dish with salt (to taste) and 1/4 tsp of black pepper
6. Once done, serve the garlic zucchini rice hot and enjoy!

How long does garlic zucchini rice last in the fridge?

Garlic zucchini rice can be stored in the fridge for about 3-4 days after it has been cooked. To ensure maximum freshness and safety, the rice should be promptly cooled down to room temperature and stored in an airtight container in the fridge. When reheating, make sure to do so thoroughly until the rice is piping hot. It is not recommended to store cooked rice for longer than four days, as it could lead to the growth of harmful bacteria. It’s always better to cook small batches of rice as needed to maintain its quality and freshness.

Low calorie garlic zucchini rice recipe substitutions

To make this garlic zucchini rice recipe lower in calories, there are a few substitutions that could be made. Firstly, instead of using long-grain white rice, you could replace it with quinoa or brown rice, both of which are lower in calories and provide more nutrients. Secondly, instead of using 2 tbsp of olive oil, you could reduce it to 1 tbsp or replace it with a calorie-free cooking spray to reduce the total calorie count. Additionally, you could reduce the amount of salt used in the recipe to further lower the calorie count. By making these substitutions, you can enjoy a delicious and healthy garlic zucchini rice that is lower in calories.

What to serve with a garlic zucchini rice?

Garlic zucchini rice is already a flavorful and hearty dish on its own, but it would be great to pair it with other dishes that complement its flavors and texture. For a complete meal, you can serve it with grilled or baked chicken, roasted vegetables such as carrots or broccoli, and a light salad with vinaigrette dressing. You may also opt for a creamy mushroom or spinach sauce to add some savory depth to your zucchini rice. Alternatively, you can top it with grilled shrimp or tofu for a protein-rich, vegetarian-friendly option. A glass of crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon would make an excellent accompaniment.

Whats the best sauce for a garlic zucchini rice?

There are a few different types of sauces that could pair well with garlic zucchini rice, depending on what flavors you want to emphasize. If you’re looking for something light and tangy, a lemon butter sauce could be a good choice – simply melt some butter in a saucepan, add a squeeze of lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper to taste. If you want something with a little more heft, a creamy garlic sauce could be a delicious addition. To make this, you could start by sautéing some minced garlic in a bit of butter, then adding heavy cream and some grated parmesan cheese. Let the sauce simmer until it thickens slightly, then add salt and pepper to taste. Finally, if you’re feeling adventurous, a spicy tomato sauce could complement the garlic and zucchini well, especially if you’re serving the dish with chicken or shrimp. To whip up a simple version of this sauce, cook diced tomatoes with garlic, onion, and red pepper flakes in a pan until the mixture has thickened and the flavors have melded together. No matter which sauce you choose, be sure to taste it before drizzling it on your rice to make any necessary seasoning adjustments.

Garlic zucchini rice health benefits

Garlic zucchini rice has several health benefits. Both garlic and zucchini are low in fat and calories but high in nutrients like vitamin C, vitamin A, magnesium, potassium, and fiber. Garlic is known for its antimicrobial properties which may boost the immune system and help prevent infections. Additionally, studies have suggested that zucchini may help lower blood sugar levels and improve digestion. The rice in this dish provides a source of complex carbohydrates that can provide energy and promote satiety. Overall, garlic zucchini rice can be a nutritious addition to a well-balanced diet. However, if you are looking for a recipe that is even healthier, consider roasted vegetables with quinoa. This dish is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants from a variety of colorful vegetables and quinoa, a high-protein, gluten-free grain.