Zucchini Layered Casserole

Another one of my creations...I was trying to come up with something to make, using some zucchinis that I had on hand... The end result; rice with zucchini, vege-burger*, and zesty tomato sauce, and everything topped with grated cheese. A very tasty and satisfying vegetarian dish.

Easy enough and can me made the day before, and just popped in the oven, before serving, until heated through.  Why didn't I think of this sooner?
   




Ingredients:

First Layer:
1 onion, chopped
2 tbsp. oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1-1/2 cups dry veggie burger granules
2 tsp. tomato paste
 
Second Layer:
1-1/2 cups rice
3 cups of water
1/2 tsp. salt
1 tbsp. margarine
 
Third Layer:
2 large zucchini
1 tsp. salt
1 large onion, chopped
3 tbsp. oil
1 tsp. Dash seasoning
1 tsp. seasoning salt
1 tsp. dried oregano
1 tsp. dried parsley
1 cup tomato sauce
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/2 cup grated mozzarella, for topping
 
Directions:


First layer;
Place dry veggie burger granules into a bowl. Pour hot water, enough to cover and set aside until all water has been absorbed.

In a medium pan, sauté onions in 2 tablespoons of oil; add garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Stir in the  add veggie burger and tomato paste; cook for 10 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

Second layer; Wash rice; place in a pot; cover with water and bring to a boil. Stir in salt and margarine. Cook on low for 15 minutes; remove from heat and set aside.



Third layer; Wash and slice  zucchini and place into a bowl. Sprinkle with salt and set aside for 20- 30 minutes. Drain liquid.



Meanwhile, in a large pan, sauté onions in the oil for 2-3 minutes; add (drained) zucchini slices, seasonings, oregano, parsley and tomato sauce and cook until zucchinis are soft. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.



Using a 9-inch x 13-inch lightly greased pan, spread the veggie burger mixture on the bottom of the pan.



Spread the rice on top and smooth over.



Top rice with the zucchini mixture. Sprinkle top with grated mozzarella.

Just before serving, preheat oven at 350 F. and  bake  for 35-45 minutes or until cheese has melted and starts to brown.


 
Makes: 8-10 servings

* veggie-burger - is a ground meat substitute. I used the dry form but you may substitute Yves Meatless Ground Beef, (no soaking required), that can be found at natural and health food section of your grocery store.
 
Leia’s Culinary Treasures