Name: Julia Child’s Zucchini and Rice Gratin Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 2 to 2 1/2 lbs zucchini; 1 cup onions, minced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1/2 cup uncooked white rice; 1/2 cup milk, as needed; 2/3 cup Parmesan cheese, grated and divided; 5 tablespoons olive oil, divided; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

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Introduction

Julia Child’s Zucchini and Rice Gratin is a comforting French-inspired dish that combines tender zucchini, creamy rice, and savory Parmesan cheese. This gratin bakes to a golden brown perfection, making it a delightful side or light main course that’s sure to impress.

A white rectangular baking dish holds a baked rice casserole with two clear layers: the bottom layer is soft cooked rice mixed with herbs, and the top layer is evenly covered with slices of green zucchini and melted golden-brown cheese with small patches of crispness. The edges of the dish show slight browning where the casserole has baked against the dish. The dish sits on a white marbled surface with a soft cloth partially visible on the right side. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 to 2 1/2 lbs zucchini
1/2 cup uncooked white rice
1 cup onions, minced
5 tablespoons olive oil, divided
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1/2 cup milk, as needed
2/3 cup Parmesan cheese, grated and divided
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a gratin dish to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Slice the zucchini thinly, about 1/8-inch thick. Cook the white rice according to package directions, then drain and set aside.
Step 3: In a large skillet, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced onions and cook until they soften and become translucent, about 5 to 7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring well, and cook for 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper, then stir in 1/3 cup of the Parmesan cheese until melted.
Step 5: Arrange the zucchini slices in overlapping layers in the prepared gratin dish. Evenly sprinkle the cooked rice over the zucchini. Pour the onion and milk sauce over the rice and zucchini, spreading it gently.
Step 6: Drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil on top. Sprinkle with the remaining 1/3 cup of Parmesan cheese. Add additional salt and pepper if desired.
Step 7: Bake the gratin for 45 minutes, or until it is golden brown, bubbly, and the zucchini is tender when pierced with a fork.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, try adding fresh herbs like thyme or basil to the onion sauce before baking.
Use part-skim or whole milk depending on your preference for richness in the sauce.
To make it gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative like cornstarch or rice flour.

Storage

Store leftover gratin covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to keep the topping crisp. Avoid microwaving if possible to prevent sogginess.

How to Serve

A white ceramic rectangular baking dish holds a partially eaten baked rice casserole. The dish has two main visible layers with some parts missing to show inside: the bottom layer is light brown rice mixed with small bits of herbs, and the top layer consists of evenly spread, golden-brown melted cheese with thin slices of green zucchini arranged in neat rows on top. The cheese is slightly crispy and browned in spots, adding texture contrast. The dish is placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of rice for this gratin?

Yes, you can use other white rice varieties such as jasmine or basmati, but avoid quick-cooking or instant rice as it may alter the texture. Cook the rice fully before assembling.

Is it possible to prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the gratin a few hours before baking. Keep it covered in the refrigerator and bake just before serving to ensure it stays fresh and delicious.