Basmati Rice Pilaf With Zucchini, Roasted Red Peppers & Par

• medium zucchini1

  cut into 1/2 inch cubes

• olive oil↗2 tablespoons
• salt↗2 teaspoons

  plus more to taste

• fresh ground black pepper↗1⁄2 teaspoon

  plus more to taste

• unsalted butter↗1 tablespoon
• medium white onion↗1

  chopped

• basmati rice↗1 1⁄2 cups

  rinsed and drained

• chicken broth↗2 1⁄2 cups
• red bell peppers↗2

  roasted, peeled and diced

• fresh flat-leaf parsley1⁄2 cup

  chopped

• basil leaves↗4 -5

  cut into thin strips

Step-by-step instructions

1. 1

   Preheat oven to 400*F.

2. 2

   Place the zucchini cubes on a baking sheet with sides and toss with 1 TBs of the olive oil and salt and pepper to taste. Roast for about 15 minutes, stirring periodically so it browns evenly, until it is tender and golden brown. Cool to room temperature.

3. 3

   Melt the butter and the remaining 1 TBS olive oil together in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat. Add the onion and cook about 5 minutes until soft. Add the rice and continue to cook, stirring often, for about 2 minutes, ujtil the rice slides around easily in the pan. Stir in the broth, 2 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp pepper and bring to a low boil ove medium high heat. Reduce the heat tolow, cover and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, until fluffy and the rice has absorbed the liquid.

4. 4

   Remove the rice from the heat, add the roasted peppers, roasted zucchini, parsley, and basil. Stir gently to combine. Season to taste if required. Serve warm.