Christmas Green Rice
A festive, cheesy green rice casserole combining broccoli, onions, and savory mushroom soup, perfect for holiday gatherings and family dinners with vibrant flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook rice and set aside.
- Cook broccoli in 1 cup water for 5 minutes, then drain.
- Saute chopped onion and celery in 1/2 stick margarine until tender.
- Mix cooked vegetables with cooked rice and set aside.
- Combine mushroom soup and milk in a bowl.
- Pour the soup mixture over the rice and vegetable mixture.
- Add grated Cheddar cheese and mix well.
- Pour the mixture into a baking dish.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding an extra splash of milk or substituting half of the milk with sour cream. You can also use frozen broccoli instead of fresh for convenience. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, ensure the mushroom soup is meat-free. To add extra flavor, try mixing in some garlic powder or Italian seasoning.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh garden salad. For a festive touch, serve with a glass of Eggnog(1 Glass) or a Citrus Berry Cream Punch to complement the flavors. This green rice also makes a great side dish for holiday meals featuring turkey or ham.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the microwave or oven; cover with foil if using the oven to prevent drying out. You may want to add a splash of milk to maintain moisture while reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Christmas Green Rice contains roughly 352 calories, with 14g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (34% of the Daily Value), protein (28% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 660mg per serving (29% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can substitute brown rice for white rice, but be aware that it will require a longer cooking time and may alter the texture slightly. Make sure to adjust the liquid ratio as needed since brown rice absorbs more water.
Is there a gluten-free option for the mushroom soup?
Absolutely! Look for gluten-free canned mushroom soup options available in stores or consider making your own at home using gluten-free ingredients. This will keep the dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Yes, feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers, peas, or corn for added color and nutrition. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure all vegetables are tender.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).