This easy summer squash rice is a colorful and healthy side dish! With tender squash and fluffy rice, it’s both tasty and light. It’s perfect for summer meals and barbecues!
I love how quick it is to whip up—just sauté the squash and mix it with rice. It adds a lovely pop of color to my plate! Plus, leftovers make a yummy lunch. 🌼
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Summer Squash: This adds a lovely texture and color to the dish. If unavailable, zucchini is a great substitute. Both are mild and cook similarly!
Red Bell Pepper: This ingredient provides sweetness. If you want a different flavor, consider using yellow or orange bell peppers. You can also skip it if you prefer a less sweet taste.
Rice: I used long grain white rice for its fluffy texture. Brown rice can be switched in for a healthier option, but remember it will need a longer cooking time and more water.
Broth: Vegetable or chicken broth enhances the flavor. You could use water instead if you’re out, but it may taste a bit bland. You can even make your own broth from veggie scraps!
How Do I Perfectly Cook Rice with Vegetables?
Cooking rice alongside vegetables can be tricky, but don’t worry! Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start by sautéing your onions and garlic to build flavor before adding rice.
- Toast the rice briefly with the veggies to bring out its nutty flavor.
- Use the right liquid ratio—usually 2 cups of liquid for every cup of rice for fluffy results.
- Cover the pot while it’s cooking to keep the steam in, allowing the rice to cook evenly.
Let it sit off the heat for a few minutes once done. This helps the texture become light and fluffy. Enjoy your perfectly cooked summer squash rice!
Easy Summer Squash Rice for a Healthy Side
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup yellow summer squash, diced (about 1 medium squash)
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long grain white rice (such as basmati or jasmine), rinsed
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika or sweet paprika
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to cook, making a total of about 40 minutes. In less than an hour, you’ll have a delightful side dish ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent and softens. This builds a tasty base for your dish!
2. Add Garlic and Vegetables:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until it’s fragrant. Then, toss in the diced summer squash and red bell pepper. Cook these vegetables for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the squash is tender but not mushy. We want to keep that nice texture!
3. Incorporate the Rice:
Now it’s time to add the rice. Stir it in gently, making sure it’s coated with the oil and mixed with the vegetables. Let it cook for 1-2 minutes; this toasts the rice and enhances its flavor!
4. Season and Add Broth:
Sprinkle in the salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir well to combine. Now, pour in the broth and bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
5. Simmer the Rice:
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Let it simmer for about 15-18 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the rice is tender, and the liquid is absorbed.
6. Let It Rest:
Remove the skillet from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. This steaming step helps finish cooking the rice and makes it fluffy!
7. Fluff and Garnish:
Finally, fluff the rice with a fork and taste it. Adjust seasonings if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and add grated Parmesan cheese if you like it creamy!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve this beautiful summer squash rice warm as a healthy and colorful side dish. Enjoy every bite!
FAQ About Easy Summer Squash Rice
Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can swap in other veggies like zucchini, carrots, or even spinach. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the vegetables you choose; softer veggies like spinach will need less time, while harder ones like carrots will need more.
What Type of Rice Can I Substitute?
While long grain white rice is ideal for this dish, you can use brown rice for a healthier option. Just remember that brown rice will require more liquid and a longer cooking time—about 40-45 minutes instead of 15-18 minutes!
Can I Make This Dish Vegan?
Yes! Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and skip the Parmesan cheese. You’ll still get a delicious and hearty side that’s entirely plant-based.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water and heat in the microwave or on the stove, stirring occasionally to keep it moist. Enjoy again as a tasty lunch or dinner side!
