Summer Vegetable Bowl Zucchini Corn

Celebrate the abundance of the season with this vibrant Summer Vegetable Bowl. A fresh and wholesome meal, it features a medley of sautéed zucchini, sweet corn, and colorful bell peppers served over a bed of fluffy rice. Finished with juicy cherry tomatoes and fragrant fresh basil, this dish is perfect for a light and nourishing summer dinner.

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This easy-to-make main dish balances simple preparation with sophisticated flavors, making it a reliable choice for busy weeknights when you still want a garden-fresh experience on your plate.

Ingredients

• Vegetables
• 2 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup sweet corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
• Base
• 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
• Aromatics & Garnish
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• ½ cup fresh basil leaves, torn
• Optional
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions

Step 1

Cook the rice according to package instructions. Keep warm.

Step 2

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3

Add zucchini, bell peppers, and corn. Season with salt and pepper. Sauté for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are just tender.

Step 4

Stir in the cherry tomatoes and cook for another 2–3 minutes, until tomatoes begin to soften.

Step 5

If using, drizzle with lemon juice. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes as desired.

Step 6

To serve, divide the rice among four bowls. Top each with the sautéed vegetables.

Step 7

Garnish generously with fresh basil before serving.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

When sautéing, ensure the vegetables are just tender to maintain their bright colors and textures. Adding the garlic first for exactly one minute ensures it releases its fragrance without burning, while the cherry tomatoes should only be cooked briefly until they just begin to soften.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For extra protein, you can easily add grilled tofu or chickpeas to the bowl. If you want to enhance the flavor profile even further, consider stirring in a spoonful of pesto before serving.

Serviervorschläge

Divide the fluffy rice evenly among four bowls and top generously with the sautéed vegetable mixture and torn basil. This meal pairs wonderfully with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing glass of iced herbal tea.

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Simple, fresh, and visually stunning, the Summer Vegetable Bowl is an ideal way to enjoy the best flavors of the season in one easy-to-prepare meal.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use different vegetables in this bowl?

Absolutely. This bowl is highly adaptable. Eggplant, yellow squash, green beans, or fresh summer squash work beautifully. For heartier vegetables like broccoli or cauliflower, add them a few minutes earlier so they cook through properly.

→ Is it better to use white or brown rice?

Both options work well. White rice cooks faster and has a lighter texture that complements the vegetables. Brown rice adds nutty flavor and extra fiber, though it requires about 45 minutes to cook. Quinoa, farro, or couscous are also excellent grain alternatives.

→ How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep rice and vegetables in different containers to maintain texture. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding fresh basil just before serving. The rice may need a splash of water when reheating.

→ What protein additions work best?

Grilled tofu cubes, roasted chickpeas, or pan-seared tempeh add satisfying protein while keeping the dish vegetarian. For non-vegetarian options, grilled chicken strips, shrimp, or even a fried egg on top complement the summer vegetables beautifully.

→ Can I make this bowl ahead for meal prep?

Yes, this bowls well for meal prep. Cook the rice and vegetables in batches at the start of the week. Store them separately and assemble bowls as needed. The vegetables actually develop more flavor after sitting, making them ideal for prep. Add fresh basil just before eating.

→ What seasonings can I add for more flavor?

Beyond the garlic and red pepper flakes, try dried oregano, thyme, or Italian seasoning blend during cooking. A splash of balsamic vinegar at the end adds depth. Fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or mint can replace or complement the basil depending on your preference.