1 1/2 c. zucchini
1/4 lb. smoked or unsmoked link sausage (sliced)
1/2 med. green pepper, chopped
1/2 med. onion, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced OR 1/4 tsp. garlic powder
1 1/2 tsp. fresh thyme leaves OR 1/2 tsp. dry
1 lg. bay leaf
1 tsp. instant chicken bouillon OR 1 cube
2 c. chopped tomato with accumulated liquid
1 1/2 c. instant rice
1 c. water
2 tsp. chopped parsley
HOT PEPPER SAUCE (OPTIONAL)

You may substitute 1 (16 ounce) can undrained tomatoes and reduce water by 1/2 cup.

In microwave-safe 2 quart casserole, combine zucchini, sausage, green pepper, onion, garlic, thyme and bay leaf. Cover. Microwave (high) 5 to 6 minutes, stirring once. Stir in tomatoes, water, bouillon and rice. Recover and microwave 10 to 15 minutes. Stir in parsley and pepper sauce to taste.

Serves 6.