Why you should try rice salad
This rice salad is very versatile because you can add different vegetables based on what is in your cupboard. It stays fresh for several days which makes it perfect for packed lunches or picnics. The lemon and olive oil dressing provides a bright flavour without being too heavy. It is a healthy option that fills you up while remaining light.
How to get rice salad ready
Cook the rice: Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Place it in a saucepan with the measured water and a pinch of salt. Bring to the boil then turn the heat down and simmer for ten minutes. Remove from the heat and let it sit with the lid on for five minutes before fluffing with a fork.
Prepare the vegetables: While the rice cools down, wash and chop the red pepper and cucumber into small cubes. Peel the red onion and dice it finely to ensure the flavour is evenly distributed. If you are using frozen peas, place them in a bowl of warm water for a few minutes to thaw then drain them.
Mix the dressing: Find a small bowl to combine the olive oil and lemon juice. Add the salt and black pepper then whisk the mixture until it is well combined. You can adjust the seasoning of your dressing by adding more lemon if you prefer a sharper taste.
Combine and serve: Place the cooled rice into a large mixing bowl and add all the prepared vegetables. Pour the dressing over the ingredients and toss everything together gently so the rice does not break. Serve the Rice Salad immediately or store it in the fridge to let the flavours develop further.
Extra tips for rice salad
To get the best texture for your Rice Salad, ensure the rice is completely cold before adding the vegetables. If the rice is still warm, it might soften the vegetables and make them lose their crunch. You can spread the cooked rice out on a large tray to help it cool down faster.
Using long grain rice like basmati or jasmine prevents the salad from becoming sticky or clumpy. If you have leftover rice from the day before, this is an excellent way to use it up. Feel free to add fresh herbs like parsley or mint to give the dish an extra layer of freshness.
You might also enjoy
fried rice with turkey,
hot wings or
pitta bread with chicken.
