Grilled Shrimp with Brown Rice and Garlic Sautéed Zucchini

Ingredients

• 1.5 cup brown rice (long-grain or basmati recommended)
• 3.75 cup water (for cooking)
• 1 tsp vegetable oil (optional, prevents sticking)

Instructions

1. 1

   Prepare the rice

   • Place the brown rice in a fine-mesh sieve and rinse under cold running water until the water runs clear, about 1-2 minutes.
   • For a softer texture, you can soak the rinsed rice in fresh water for 30 minutes, then drain it completely.
2. 2

   Combine ingredients and bring to a boil

   • In a medium saucepan with a heavy bottom and a tight-fitting lid, combine the drained rice, 3.75 cups of water, and optional vegetable oil.
   • Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over high heat, which takes about 5-7 minutes.
3. 3

   Simmer the rice

   • Once boiling, immediately reduce the heat to the lowest possible setting.
   • Cover the saucepan with the lid and let it cook undisturbed for 40 minutes. It's important not to lift the lid.
4. 4

   Rest and fluff the rice

   • After 40 minutes, turn off the heat and let the rice stand, still covered, for an additional 10 minutes to absorb the remaining steam.
   • Remove the lid and gently fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains before serving.

Ingredients

• 2 cup zucchini (sliced into 1/4-inch rounds, about 2 medium)
• 2 tsp olive oil
• 4 pcs garlic (cloves, minced)
• 4 tsp parmesan cheese (grated)
• 0.25 tsp salt
• 0.25 tsp black pepper (freshly ground)
• 0.25 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)

Instructions

1. 1

   Sauté the zucchini

   • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat.
   • Add the sliced zucchini in a single layer. Let it cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes to get a nice golden-brown sear on one side.
   • Stir the zucchini and continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes until it's tender-crisp. Avoid overcooking to prevent it from becoming mushy.
2. 2

   Add aromatics and finish

   • Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet.
   • Stir constantly and cook for about 30-60 seconds until the garlic is fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn.
   • Remove the skillet from the heat. Season with salt and black pepper.
   • Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the zucchini and toss gently to combine.
3. 3

   Serve immediately

   • Transfer the sautéed zucchini to a serving dish.
   • Serve warm as a side dish.