Rice with Zucchini and Ham Recipe

This very simple dish is a great way to use some of those fresh zucchini which are often offered to you. Serves 6.

Ingredients:
4 T. butter or margarine
1 lb. cooked ham, diced
1 large clove garlic, minced
2 medium zucchini, diced (about 1-1/2 to 2 lbs.)
1/2 cup chopped parsley
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups raw rice (6 cups cooked)
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese

Step 1. Melt the butter in a large skillet or shallow Dutch oven. Add the meat and cook it for 4 minutes or so over medium heat. Stir in the garlic and add the zucchini. Turn the heat to medium-high, toss the zucchini to coat it all with butter, and sauté it, uncovered, stirring frequently, for about 10 minutes, until it is just cooked. Add the parsley and cook for another minute or two. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.

Step 2. While the zucchini cooks, prepare the rice according to your usual method. Add the hot rice to the pan and carefully mix it with the zucchini and ham, over low heat, adding about 6 tablespoons of grated cheese. Taste and add salt, pepper or cheese as needed. Serve hot accompanied by a big green salad.