Rice and Zucchini Tart

Rice and zucchini tart - a delicious combination of flavors and textures that blends simple ingredients into a comforting and savory dish. This recipe is perfect for quick lunches or light dinners, offering not only a wonderful taste but also a healthy dose of nutrients.

In a world where home cooking is becoming increasingly appreciated, the rice and zucchini tart is an inspiring, easy-to-make choice that can be served warm or cold. It is also a flexible recipe that can be adapted to the ingredients you have on hand.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Ingredients
- 300 g flour
- 250 g rice
- 250 g zucchini
- 2 onions
- 3 eggs
- 100 g cheese
- 3-4 tablespoons oil
- 1 bunch dill
- Salt and pepper, to taste

Recipe History
The tart is a dish with deep roots in culinary tradition, often symbolizing generosity and hospitality. This particular recipe with rice and zucchini reflects the creativity of seasonal cooking, combining available ingredients in a pleasing and nutritious way. The zucchini, with its fine texture, blends perfectly with the rice, creating a hearty base, while the cheese adds a touch of creaminess.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the rice
Start by washing the rice well under cold running water to remove excess starch. In a pot, add generously salted water and boil the rice according to the package instructions. This usually takes about 15-20 minutes. Once cooked, drain the rice and set it aside to cool.

2. Sautéing the onion and zucchini
In a pan, heat 2-3 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, add the grated zucchini. Sauté together until the zucchini softens, about 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

3. Preparing the mixture
In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, the onion and zucchini mixture, the 3 beaten eggs, and the grated cheese. Add salt and pepper to taste, as well as the finely chopped dill. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.

4. Preparing the dough
In another bowl, combine the 300 g of flour with a teaspoon of salt. Add a tablespoon of oil and about 200 ml of water, mixing until you obtain a firmer dough. If the dough is too sticky, you can add a little more flour.

5. Forming the dough sheets
Divide the dough into two pieces. Roll each piece into a round sheet, making sure one is larger to cover the edges of the baking dish. Use a rolling pin and a little flour to prevent sticking.

6. Assembling the tart
Grease the baking dish with oil and place the larger sheet in the dish, covering the edges. Pour the rice and zucchini mixture into the dish, smoothing it out. Cover with the other sheet of dough.

7. Finalizing the dish
Beat an egg with a tablespoon of flour and brush the surface of the last sheet. This step will help achieve a golden and crispy crust. Preheat the oven to 180°C and bake the tart for about 40 minutes or until golden.

8. Serving
Once baked, let the tart cool slightly before cutting it. It is delicious both warm and cold, and can be served plain or with a fresh green salad.

Practical Tips
- Vegetarian option: You can also add other seasonal vegetables, such as carrots or peppers, to diversify the flavors.
- Whole wheat flour: By replacing white flour with whole wheat flour, you will obtain a healthier dough, rich in fiber.
- Olive oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for a more intense and healthy flavor.
- Cheese substitution: If you want a lower-calorie option, you can use low-fat cheese or goat cheese.

Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use brown rice? Yes, but the cooking time will be longer. Make sure to boil it according to the package instructions.
- What other spices can I add? You can experiment with garlic, basil, or oregano to add another level of flavor.
- How long can the tart be kept? It can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days, and the flavor will intensify as it cools.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits
This tart is a good source of carbohydrates from rice and fiber from zucchini, while the cheese provides protein and calcium. A serving (about 1/6 of the tart) contains around 250-300 calories, depending on the ingredients used.

Serving Suggestions
For a complete meal, serve the tart with a fresh green salad drizzled with lemon dressing and olive oil. A refreshing drink, such as mint tea or a fruit smoothie, will pair perfectly with this recipe.

The rice and zucchini tart is not just a recipe, but a culinary experience that combines tradition with innovation. So, get ready to impress with this simple yet delicious dish. Enjoy your meal!