Caprese Rice Casserole

The Caprese rice casserole is a dish inspired by the flavors of the island of Capri, characterized by the colors and typical tastes of the Mediterranean. Here is an Italian version of the dish.

Ingredients

• 300 g rice
• 250 g mozzarella (buffalo, if possible)
• 400 g peeled tomatoes or fresh cherry tomatoes
• Fresh basil to taste
• 2-3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 80 g grated Parmesan
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 eggs (optional)
• Butter and breadcrumbs for the pan

Preparation

1. Cook the rice in boiling salted water until al dente, then drain and let it cool slightly.
2. Meanwhile, dice the mozzarella and let it drain to remove excess liquid.
3. If using peeled tomatoes, crush them lightly; if using cherry tomatoes, cut them in half or quarters.
4. In a large bowl, season the rice with extra virgin olive oil, salt, pepper, and most of the grated Parmesan. If you decide to use the eggs, beat them and incorporate into the rice mixture to add binding.
5. Take a baking dish or ramekins and butter them, then sprinkle with breadcrumbs to prevent the casserole from sticking.
6. Start assembling the casserole by making a first layer of rice, then add a layer of mozzarella and one of tomatoes. Continue layering until ingredients are used up, ending with a layer of rice.
7. Sprinkle the surface with the remaining Parmesan.
8. Bake in a preheated oven at 180 °C for about 20-30 minutes, or until the casserole is golden on top.
9. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving with fresh basil leaves as garnish.

A little tip: The Caprese rice casserole is a dish that lends itself very well to being served both hot and cold, perfect for a picnic or a buffet.

Fun Fact

Although it is called “Caprese-style”, it is not actually a traditional dish from the island of Capri, but rather a creative reinterpretation that uses the same ingredients as the famous Caprese salad.