Fresh Summer Fried Rice

As the days grow warmer and the sun hangs high in the sky, the allure of fresh, vibrant dishes becomes increasingly irresistible. Among these, Fresh Summer Fried Rice stands out as a perfect choice for the season. This dish not only captures the essence of summer with its bright colors and fresh flavors but also provides a delightful way to utilize the bounty of seasonal produce available during these months. The combination of rice, vegetables, and protein makes it a versatile meal that can be enjoyed for lunch or dinner, or even as a refreshing side dish at summer barbecues and gatherings.

Embrace the season with a Fresh Summer Fried Rice recipe that showcases vibrant colors and flavors. This versatile dish combines jasmine rice with seasonal vegetables like sweet corn, snap peas, and bell peppers, all enveloped in a savory mix of soy sauce and sesame oil. Perfect for lunch or dinner, it's easy to adapt with your favorite protein or make it vegetarian. Enjoy the freshness of summer in every delicious bite and create lasting memories with friends and family around the table!

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Ingredients

2 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably chilled)

1 cup fresh corn kernels (from about 2 ears of corn)

1 cup snap peas, trimmed and halved

1 cup diced bell peppers (use a mix of red, yellow, and green for a colorful presentation)

1 medium zucchini, diced

2 green onions, chopped (include both white and green parts)

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 tablespoons soy sauce

1 tablespoon sesame oil

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

2 large eggs, lightly beaten

1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated

Salt and pepper, to taste

Fresh basil or cilantro for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by washing and chopping all the vegetables—bell peppers, zucchini, snap peas, and green onions. If your jasmine rice isn't already cooked, prepare it according to package instructions beforehand and let it chill in the refrigerator. Chilled rice is ideal for achieving the best texture in fried rice.

Heat the Pan: In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. When the oil is shimmering, add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté them for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning and to release their flavors.

Add the Vegetables: Introduce the diced bell peppers, zucchini, fresh corn, and snap peas to the skillet. Stir-fry the vegetables for about 3-4 minutes, ensuring they remain vibrant and slightly crispy.

Scramble the Eggs: Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet, creating an open space. Pour the beaten eggs into this empty section. Allow the eggs to cook undisturbed for a few seconds, then scramble them gently until completely cooked. Once done, mix the eggs back in with the sautéed vegetables.

Add the Rice: Add the chilled jasmine rice to the skillet, carefully breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir everything together, ensuring the rice combines well with the vegetable and egg mixture.

Season the Rice: Drizzle soy sauce and sesame oil over the rice. Stir to evenly distribute the sauce, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Continue to stir-fry for a couple of minutes until the rice is thoroughly heated and well-coated in the sauce.

Finish with Green Onions: Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the chopped green onions. Give the dish a final taste and adjust with additional salt or soy sauce, if desired.

Serve: Transfer the fried rice to a serving dish or individual bowls. Garnish with fresh basil or cilantro for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your vibrant and delicious Fresh Summer Fried Rice!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 25 minutes | Serves 4