Riz Bil Kousa wa Fattoush

Riz Bil Kousa wa Fattoush is a delightful Lebanese rice dish made with tender zucchini and a refreshing salad of mixed greens and vegetables. This vegetarian meal is perfect for those seeking a healthy and flavorful option.

Ingredients

• Basmati rice - 1 cup
• Water - 2 cups
• Zucchini - 2 medium, diced
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Onion - 1 small, finely chopped
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Cumin powder - 1 teaspoon
• Salt - 1 teaspoon
• Pepper - 1/2 teaspoon
• Pine nuts - 2 tablespoons, toasted
• Lemon juice - 1 tablespoon
• Tomato - 1 medium, diced
• Cucumber - 1 small, diced
• Radishes - 4, thinly sliced
• Green bell pepper - 1/2, diced
• Parsley - 1/4 cup, chopped
• Mint - 1/4 cup, chopped
• Pita bread - 2 pieces, toasted

Steps

1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then soak it in water for 20 minutes.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the diced zucchini, cumin, salt, and pepper to the pan. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until the zucchini is tender.
4. Drain the soaked rice and add it to the saucepan with 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce to low heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the rice is cooked and water is absorbed.
5. While the rice is cooking, prepare the fattoush salad. In a large bowl, combine the diced tomato, cucumber, radishes, green bell pepper, parsley, and mint.
6. Drizzle the salad with the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and lemon juice, tossing well to combine.
7. Once the rice is done, fluff it with a fork and mix in the toasted pine nuts.
8. Serve the rice on a plate topped with the fattoush salad, and accompany with toasted pita bread.

Nutrition

• Calories: 480
• Protein: 12 g
• Carbs: 70 g
• Fiber: 8 g
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 300 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Total Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
• Water: 0.5 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in vitamins and minerals from fresh vegetables.
• High in fiber, promoting digestive health.

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