Ingredients

One 4 oz. package Farmhouse Herb & Butter Flavor Long Grain & Wild Rice
2 cups sliced mushrooms
1 cup sliced scallions (green & white parts)
1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
1 clove garlic, minced
1 Tablespoons butter or margarine
One 14.5 oz. can chicken broth
1-1/3 cups water
1 cup half & half*
One 10 oz. package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
3/4 cup diced ham
1/2 cup grated Swiss cheese
1/3 cup minced fresh parsley
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. In a large saucepan, sauté mushrooms, scallions, bell pepper and garlic in butter or margarine until tender.
2. Add chicken broth and water; bring just to a boil.
3. Stir in rice and contents of seasoning packet. Reduce heat to low; cover and simmer 25-30 minutes or until rice is tender.
4. Stir in half & half, spinach and ham; heat just to boiling. Add cheese, stir until cheese is melted.
5. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
6. Before serving, sprinkle with parsley.

*For a lower-fat version, substitute evaporated milk for half & half.