Spicy Zucchini Rice Recipe

Welcome to Rice Cookers 101! Today we’re going to spice up your rice game with a delicious and healthy recipe for Spicy Zucchini Rice. This dish is perfect for those who love a little heat and want to incorporate more veggies into their meals. The combination of tender rice, flavorful spices, and fresh zucchini makes this recipe a crowd-pleaser that’s ready in no time. So, let’s fire up those rice cookers and get started! We’ve made this spicy 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

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• 1 cup rice
• 1 3/4 cups water
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

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Instructions

1. First, rinse the rice in cold water and drain it.
2. Next, in a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Add the rice, reduce heat, and cover it. Leave to simmer for 18-20 minutes or until rice is tender and water is absorbed.
3. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the onions and sauté them until they become translucent, about 3 minutes.
4. Then, add the diced zucchini and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the zucchini is tender, about 6-8 minutes. Stir regularly to make sure it doesn’t stick.
5. Now, add the cumin powder, chili powder, salt, and black pepper to the skillet and stir them together to combine.
6. Lower the heat and add the cooked rice. Mix it well and cook for 2-3 more minutes to warm the rice.
7. Finally, remove from heat and serve as a side dish. Enjoy your spicy zucchini rice!

How long does spicy zucchini rice last in the fridge?

Spicy zucchini rice can be stored in the fridge after cooking for up to four days, provided it is stored in an airtight container. It is important to allow the rice to cool to room temperature before storing it in the refrigerator to prevent bacterial growth. It is also recommended to reheat the rice thoroughly before consuming it, either on the stovetop or in the microwave. If you are storing leftovers for longer than four days, it is recommended to freeze them instead of storing them in the fridge to maintain freshness and quality.

Low calorie spicy zucchini rice recipe substitutions

To make the spicy zucchini rice recipe lower in calories, some substitutions can be made. Instead of using white rice, one can use brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice as they are lower in calorie compared to white rice. Additionally, one can use less oil or opt for a healthier oil like olive oil or avocado oil. Instead of using salt, one can use low-sodium alternatives or herbs like basil, thyme, oregano, and cilantro that infuse flavor without adding many calories. Lastly, one can increase the amount of veggies in the recipe and decrease the amount of rice to make the dish more balanced and reduce overall calorie intake.

What to serve with a spicy zucchini rice?

Spicy zucchini rice is a flavorful side dish that pairs well with many different main dishes. To balance out the heat of the dish, consider serving it with a cool cucumber and tomato salad drizzled with a simple lemon vinaigrette. Grilled or roasted chicken, fish, or shrimp would all be great protein options to serve alongside the rice. Another option is to top the rice with some chopped avocado and a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to add some creaminess and richness to the dish. Whatever you choose, make sure to enjoy the combination of flavors and textures in each bite.

Whats the best sauce for a spicy zucchini rice?

The best sauce for spicy zucchini rice would be a creamy avocado sauce. To make the sauce, blend one ripe avocado with a tablespoon of lime juice, a clove of garlic, a handful of cilantro leaves, and a pinch of salt until smooth. Adjust the consistency with a tablespoon of water if needed. This sauce complements the spiciness of the zucchini rice while also providing a cooling and creamy element. Additionally, the flavors of the avocado and lime juice pair well with the vegetables in the rice.

Spicy zucchini rice health benefits

Spicy zucchini rice has several health benefits. Firstly, zucchini is a great source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium. Additionally, it is low in calories and high in fiber, making it a good option for weight management and digestive health. The spiciness in the dish is also beneficial, as it can boost metabolism and help with pain relief. Overall, spicy zucchini rice is a healthy and delicious option. However, if you’d like another recipe that is even healthier, I recommend making a quinoa and roasted vegetable salad. This salad is packed with fiber, protein, and antioxidant-rich vegetables. You can add a variety of vegetables, such as roasted broccoli, bell peppers, and sweet potatoes, and season them with herbs and spices. Top it off with a simple vinaigrette made with lemon juice and olive oil for a nutritious and flavorful dish.