Sassy Salads

Rice Salad

Rice salads offer a versatile and delicious option for meals. These salads are popular worldwide, appreciated for their adaptability to various cuisines and occasions. The base ingredient, rice, serves as a blank canvas, absorbing the flavours of accompanying ingredients and dressings.

Common elements in rice salads include vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, tomatoes, and carrots, along with proteins such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu. Additional ingredients like nuts, seeds, herbs, and dried fruits add texture and complexity to the dish. Dressings can range from simple vinaigrettes to creamy, tangy sauces, enhancing the overall flavour profile.

Rice salads are not only delicious but also nutritious, providing a balanced mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and vitamins. They are perfect for picnics or as a light meal option during the warmer months.

Recipe: Summer Rice Salad

Ingredients:

• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 hard-boiled egg
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced (any colour)
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

A wide variety of quality ingredients for our recipes are available from Arkadia supermarkets in Malta and Gozo, including Arkadia FoodExpress Swatar and Arkadia Food Market Valletta.

Instructions:

1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Add the rice and a pinch of salt, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed. Remove from the heat and let it cool.

2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked and cooled rice, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, egg, parsley, and black olives.

3. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.

4. Pour the dressing over the rice and vegetable mixture and toss until everything is well coated.

5. If using, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top of the salad.

6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavours to meld together.

7. Before serving, give the salad a gentle toss and adjust seasoning if needed. Enjoy your delicious and refreshing rice salad as a side dish or a light meal on its own!

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