Ultra-Delicious Zucchini and Rice Gratin

Ultra-Delicious Zucchini and Rice Gratin
Ingredients (serves 4 to 6)
2 medium zucchini

200g rice (preferably round, Arborio type)

1 onion

2 garlic cloves

200g heavy cream

150g milk

2 eggs

150g grated cheese (Emmental, Comté, or a blend of cheeses)

1 tablespoon olive oil

Salt, pepper

Nutmeg (optional)

Parmesan cheese for gratin (optional but delicious )

Preparation
Pre-cook the rice
Cook the rice in a pot of salted water, but stop cooking 2-3 minutes before the end (it will finish cooking in the oven). Drain well.

Prepare the zucchini
Grate the zucchini or cut it into very thin slices. You can also sauté it for 5-10 minutes in a pan with a little olive oil to soften it and drain some of the water.

Sauté the onion and garlic
Slice the onion and sauté it in olive oil until translucent. Add the chopped garlic at the end of cooking.

Main mixture
In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, zucchini, onion, garlic, cream, milk, beaten eggs, grated cheese, salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Mix well.

Assembly
Pour everything into a buttered gratin dish. Sprinkle with Parmesan or a little grated cheese for an even more decadent crust.

Baking
Bake at 180°C (gas mark 6) for 35 to 40 minutes, until the gratin is golden brown. 

Resting (optional but great)
Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving; this helps the gratin hold its shape.

 Tips
You can add bacon, ham, or even tuna for a more filling version.

For an even creamier version, add a little goat cheese or mozzarella to the mixture.