Riz bil Kousa wa Tabbouleh

Riz bil Kousa wa Tabbouleh is a delightful Lebanese rice dish featuring fluffy rice cooked with zucchini and served alongside a fresh tabbouleh salad. This gluten-free meal is not only flavorful but also packed with nutrients.

Ingredients

• Long-grain rice - 150 grams
• Zucchini - 2 medium (approximately 200 grams)
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Onion - 1 small, finely chopped
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Vegetable broth - 300 ml
• Salt - 1/2 teaspoon
• Black pepper - 1/4 teaspoon
• Fresh parsley - 50 grams, chopped
• Fresh mint - 20 grams, chopped
• Tomato - 1 medium, diced
• Cucumber - 1 small, diced
• Lemon juice - 2 tablespoons

Steps

1. Rinse the 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 chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
4. Drain the rice and add it to the saucepan, stirring for 2-3 minutes until lightly toasted.
5. Pour in the vegetable broth, and season with salt and black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes or until the rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed.
6. While the rice is cooking, prepare the tabbouleh. In a bowl, combine the chopped parsley, mint, diced tomato, and cucumber.
7. Drizzle the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and lemon juice over the salad. Toss to combine and season with salt to taste.
8. Once the rice is done, remove it from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
9. Serve the rice on plates topped with sautéed zucchini slices and a generous side of tabbouleh.

Nutrition

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 10 g
• Carbs: 70 g
• Fiber: 6 g
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 250 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Total Fat: 14 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12 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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