Zucchini And Squash Provincial
Zucchini and squash are combined with tomatoes, rice, and melted cheese to create a hearty, flavorful casserole. This dish offers a comforting blend of vegetables and cheesy goodness, perfect for family dinners or potlucks. Its simple preparation and vibrant flavors make it a versatile favorite.
Ingredients
- 2 cups zucchini, sliced ⓘ
- 1 medium onion, sliced ⓘ
- 3 tablespoons margarine ⓘ
- 1/2 cup Minute rice
- 2 cups yellow squash, sliced ⓘ
- 2 (16 oz) cans stewed tomatoes, strained slightly ⓘ
- 1/4 cup reserved tomato juice ⓘ
- 3/4 teaspoon garlic salt ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper ⓘ
- 8 oz shredded Mozzarella cheese ⓘ
- 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Place the sliced zucchini in the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch dish.
- Top with sliced onion.
- Sprinkle uncooked rice over the onion.
- Cut 1 tablespoon of margarine into pieces and dot over the casserole.
- Add the sliced yellow squash on top.
- Pour the strained stewed tomatoes and reserved tomato juice over the vegetables.
- Dot with 2 tablespoons of margarine.
- Cover tightly with foil and bake for 50 minutes.
- Remove from oven and remove the foil.
- Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and bake an additional 5 to 10 minutes until cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing the onion in the margarine before layering it in the dish. You can substitute the zucchini and yellow squash with other vegetables like bell peppers or eggplant if desired. If you prefer a creamier texture, add a layer of ricotta cheese between the vegetables. Be sure to strain the tomatoes well to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
Serving Suggestions
This Zucchini and Squash Provincial is excellent as a standalone dish or served alongside grilled chicken or fish. For a complete meal, pair it with a fresh salad like Pink Champagne Salad or crusty bread. To elevate your meal further, serve with a light dessert such as Buttermilk Coconut Custard Pie to balance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for quick reheating, ensuring they are heated evenly to maintain texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Zucchini And Squash Provincial contains roughly 332 calories, with 25g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (58% of the Daily Value), calcium (51% of the Daily Value), and protein (50% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 805mg per serving (35% 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 make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance and assemble it without baking. Cover it tightly with foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, bake it straight from the fridge, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it is heated through.
Can I use brown rice instead of Minute rice?
While you can use brown rice, keep in mind that it requires a longer cooking time. You may need to pre-cook it slightly or increase the liquid in the recipe to ensure the rice is fully cooked by the end of the baking time.
Is this dish vegetarian friendly?
Yes, this Zucchini and Squash Provincial is a vegetarian recipe that is packed with vegetables and cheese. If you want to make it vegan, substitute the margarine with a plant-based alternative and use vegan cheese for topping. This way, you can enjoy a delicious, meat-free meal.
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).