Creamy Rice Flan with Zucchini

17/11/2023

The creamy rice flan with zucchini is a comforting and creamy dish, perfect as an appetizer or as a light meal. Here is the recipe:

Ingredients

200 g of Arborio or Carnaroli rice
2 medium zucchini
1 small onion
100 g of melting cheese (such as mozzarella or provola)
500 ml of vegetable broth
50 g of grated Parmesan cheese
2 eggs
Bread crumbs as needed
Salt as needed
Black pepper as needed
Extra virgin olive oil

Preparation

Preheat the oven to 180 °C.
Begin by grating or finely dicing the zucchini and set aside.
Finely chop the onion and sauté it in a pan with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil until it becomes transparent.
Add the rice to the pan and toast it for a couple of minutes.
Gradually pour the hot vegetable broth, stirring frequently and allowing the liquid to be absorbed before adding the next ladle. Continue until the rice is al dente (about 15-18 minutes).
Meanwhile, cook the zucchini in another pan with a drizzle of oil and a pinch of salt, until they are lightly browned.
When the rice is ready, remove it from the heat and let it cool down. Then, incorporate the diced melting cheese, grated Parmesan, zucchini, and finally the eggs. Season with salt and pepper.
Butter and sprinkle with bread crumbs one or more baking molds (you can use a large mold or individual molds).
Pour the mixture into the molds, level the surface, and sprinkle with an additional layer of bread crumbs.
Bake in the oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the surface of the flan becomes golden and crunchy.
Let rest for a few minutes before unmolding and serving warm.

Fun Fact

The rice flan is a versatile and much-loved recipe in the Italian tradition, capable of adapting to many ingredients depending on the season or personal preference. This version with zucchini is a spring or summer variant, but you could try adding mushrooms, spinach, or other vegetables to customize it. The melting cheese touch makes it particularly delicious for children and appreciated for its comfort.