written by threadslinger

When I first became a vegetarian I naturally just replaced meat in my diet with pasta and since I’m italian, pasta was always a staple in my life that grew when I no longer had chicken. However, I was quickly realizing that eating a lot of pasta is not good for staying fit so I have been investing in different kinds of veggie dishes that can still fill you up. I found this cassarole which is awesome tasting, super easy and very healthy.

Ingedients:

1 Cup long grain rice
2 Cups water
2 T vegetable oil
1 1/2 pounds zucchini cubed (i used 3 medium sized zucchs)
1 Cup sliced green onions
1 clove garlic, minced
1 1/4 t garlic salt
1/2 t basil
1/2 t paprika
1/2 t dried oregano
1 1/2 C seeded, chopped tomatoes
2 Cups shredded cheddar cheese

Directions:

1. Combine rice and water in a saucepan (or rice cooker if you have one)and bring to a boil. Reduce to low heat and simmer 20 min.
2. Preheat oven to 350 degrees and lightly grease a shallow casserole dish.
3. Heat the oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook zucchini, green onions and garlic for 5 min or until tender. Season with salt, basil, paprika, and oregno.

4. Mix in cooked rice, tomatoes and 1 cup cheese. Continue to cook and stir until heated through. Transfer to the prepared casserole dish. Top with remaining cheese.

5. Bake uncovered for 20 min or unitl cheese is melted and bubbly. Enjoy