Blue cordon on a bed of rice and zucchini spread

Cordon Bleu on a bed of rice with zucchini zacusca

Welcome to my kitchen! Today, I will guide you step by step in preparing a delicious and quick recipe: Cordon Bleu on a bed of rice with zucchini zacusca. This recipe is perfect for days when you want to cook something tasty but don't have much time available. You will discover how to transform simple ingredients from your freezer and pantry into a savory and comforting meal.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 2

Ingredients you need:
- 2 bags of frozen cordon bleu
- 300 g of rice (preferably long-grain rice)
- 50 g of butter
- 1-2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste (you can also use Delikat for extra flavor)
- Zucchini zacusca (about 250 g, for serving)
- Optional: pickles for a pleasant contrast

Recipe history:
Cordon Bleu is a dish with a name that evokes rich culinary traditions. Although the recipe has evolved over time, its essence remains constant: a delicious combination of meat and cheese, covered with a crispy crust. Combined with a bed of aromatic rice and zucchini zacusca, this dish becomes not just a meal, but a culinary experience full of flavor.

Preparing the Cordon Bleu:
1. Start by placing a large skillet over medium heat. Add a few tablespoons of oil and wait for it to heat up. It is important that the oil is hot enough to achieve a crispy crust.
2. Remove the cordon bleu from the freezer. There is no need to thaw it, as frying it directly will help retain the meat's juices.
3. Carefully place the cordon bleu in the skillet and fry for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden and crispy. Use a spatula to turn it easily.

Cooking the rice:
1. In a separate pot, add 600 ml of water, 300 g of rice, bay leaves, salt, and pepper (or Delikat). Place the pot over high heat and wait for it to boil.
2. Once the water starts boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot with a lid, and let the rice simmer for 15 minutes or until the water is completely absorbed. Don't forget to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
3. When the rice is almost done, add the butter cut into cubes. Gently stir with a wooden spatula, being careful not to break the rice grains. The butter will give a delicious flavor and a creamy texture to the rice.

Assembling the plate:
1. Once the cordon bleu is fried and the rice is ready, it's time to assemble the plate. Place a bed of aromatic rice on each plate.
2. Carefully place the cordon bleu on top of the rice.
3. Serve with zucchini zacusca on the side of the plate. This will add a note of freshness and perfectly complement the flavors.

Serving suggestions:
To transform this dish into an unforgettable meal, you can add pickles alongside the zacusca. They will provide a note of acidity that will contrast pleasantly with the richness of the cordon bleu and the rice.

Possible variations:
If you want to experiment, you can replace the cordon bleu with chicken or turkey fillets, which can be stuffed with cheese and herbs. You can also add sautéed vegetables to the rice, such as carrots or peas, for an extra splash of color and nutrients.

Nutritional benefits:
This recipe is an excellent source of protein due to the cordon bleu, and the rice will provide you with quick energy due to its carbohydrate content. Zucchini zacusca is rich in fiber and vitamins, promoting healthy digestion.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use fresh cordon bleu instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh cordon bleu, but the cooking time will be shorter. Always check the internal temperature of the meat to ensure it is cooked properly.
2. What other sauces can I use for serving?
In addition to zacusca, you can try tomato sauces or yogurt-based sauces for a lighter option.
3. How can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2 days. Reheat in the oven or skillet to maintain the crispy texture.

I hope this recipe inspires you to cook something delicious and enjoy a meal full of flavors. Don't hesitate to customize your recipe and share the result with your loved ones! Enjoy your meal!