This Easy Summer Squash Rice is a colorful and tasty dish that’s perfect for busy days! With fresh summer squash and fluffy rice, it’s bright and hearty.
I love how quick it is to make—just sauté the squash, mix it with seasoned rice, and you’re ready to eat! Perfect for those lazy summer nights! 🌞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: A flavorful option for sautéing. If you’re looking for a change, consider using avocado oil for a higher smoke point or butter for a rich taste.
Onion: A small onion builds a great base flavor. For a milder taste, try using shallots. You can even skip onions if you need a quick, onion-free meal!
Garlic: Fresh garlic brings fantastic aroma. If you don’t have fresh, garlic powder will work too—just use about half a teaspoon.
Rice: Long-grain white rice is nice, but feel free to swap in brown rice or a rice blend. Just remember, cooking times may vary, so check packaging for details!
Vegetables: Yellow squash and zucchini add great texture! If they’re not available, use other veggies like carrots or peas. Frozen mixed vegetables can be a quick substitute, too.
Fresh Herbs: Basil or parsley adds freshness. If fresh herbs aren’t on hand, dried herbs can also do the trick—just reduce the amount to about a teaspoon.
How Do I Make Sure My Rice is Perfectly Fluffy?
Getting fluffy rice can be tricky! Here’s how to make sure it’s just right:
- Rinse the rice under cold water before cooking to remove excess starch. This prevents clumping.
- Toast the rice in oil for two minutes. It adds flavor and helps separate the grains.
- Use the right water ratio: 2 cups of broth to 1 cup of rice. Adjust based on your rice type, especially if you’re using brown rice.
- Don’t lift the lid while it’s cooking. The steam is what helps cook the rice perfectly!
- After cooking, let it sit covered for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork to help it steam a bit more.
Enjoy making this dish with these handy tips and substitutions!
Easy Summer Squash Rice Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 medium yellow squash, diced
- 1 medium zucchini, diced (optional, for mix of summer squash)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh basil or parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Summer Squash Rice takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook, totaling around 30 minutes. It’s a quick meal that’s perfect for warm evenings or busy nights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion turns translucent and fragrant. This sets the base flavor for your dish!
2. Add Garlic and Rice:
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until the garlic is fragrant. Then, add the long-grain white rice to the pan, stirring constantly for about 2 minutes to toast the rice lightly. This extra step gives the rice a wonderful nutty flavor!
3. Cook the Rice:
Now, pour in the vegetable or chicken broth. Raise the heat to bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes until the rice absorbs the liquid and becomes tender.
4. Sauté the Vegetables:
While the rice is cooking, take another skillet and heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Add in the diced yellow squash, zucchini (if using), and diced red bell pepper. Sprinkle in the paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender and vibrant.
5. Combine Everything:
Once the rice has absorbed all the broth and is nice and fluffy, gently fluff it with a fork. Then, fold in the sautéed vegetables along with the chopped fresh herbs. Give it a gentle stir to combine all the flavors!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Taste the rice and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. If you like, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving for added richness. Enjoy your quick, colorful, and delicious summer dish!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but be aware that it will require a longer cooking time. Use 2.5 cups of broth and simmer for about 40-45 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of broth if it seems dry.
Can I Customize the Vegetables in This Recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe is very flexible. Feel free to substitute with any seasonal vegetables you have on hand, such as corn, spinach, or even diced carrots. Just adjust the cooking times so everything is tender!
Is This Recipe Vegan-Friendly?
Yes, this recipe is vegan-friendly as it uses vegetable broth and contains no animal products. Just be sure to omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative if you want to keep it plant-based.
