Italian Rice Salad

Ingredients

• 1 cup (200g) cooked rice 1 cup (200g) cooked rice
• 1/2 cup (75g) cherry tomatoes, halved 1/2 cup (75g) cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup (75g) cucumber, diced 1/2 cup (75g) cucumber, diced
• 1/4 cup (40g) red bell pepper, diced 1/4 cup (40g) red bell pepper, diced
• 1/4 cup (40g) green bell pepper, diced 1/4 cup (40g) green bell pepper, diced
• 1/4 cup (40g) black olives, sliced 1/4 cup (40g) black olives, sliced
• 2 tablespoons (30g) red onion, finely chopped 2 tablespoons (30g) red onion, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons (30g) fresh basil, chopped 2 tablespoons (30g) fresh basil, chopped
• 2 tablespoons (30g) fresh parsley, chopped 2 tablespoons (30g) fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons (30g) extra virgin olive oil 2 tablespoons (30g) extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) lemon juice 1 tablespoon (15ml) lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) white wine vinegar 1 tablespoon (15ml) white wine vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 24g, 2g
• Protein: 3g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, green bell pepper, black olives, red onion, basil, and parsley.
2. 2.
   In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, white wine vinegar, salt, and pepper.
3. 3.
   Pour the dressing over the rice mixture and toss gently to combine.
4. 4.
   Adjust the seasoning if needed.
5. 5.
   Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. 6.
   Serve chilled and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Rice — Use long-grain rice for the best texture. Cook the rice according to the package instructions and allow it to cool completely before using in the salad.

Tips & Tricks

• For added protein, you can toss in some cooked chickpeas or grilled chicken.
• Feel free to customize the salad by adding other vegetables such as artichoke hearts or roasted peppers.
• To make it more filling, serve the salad on a bed of mixed greens or arugula.
• Make sure to let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to develop.
• This salad is perfect for picnics or potlucks as it can be made ahead of time and easily transported.

Serving advice

Serve the Italian Rice Salad chilled as a refreshing side dish or as a light main course. It pairs well with grilled meats, seafood, or can be enjoyed on its own for a light lunch.

Presentation advice

Garnish the salad with a sprig of fresh basil or parsley to add a pop of color. Serve it in a large bowl or on individual plates for an appetizing presentation.