Description
Mediterranean Rice Salad
Ingredients
2 cups cooked basmati or jasmine rice (cooled)
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
1/4 cup green olives, sliced
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
For the Dressing:
3 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp red wine vinegar
1/2 tsp dried oregano
Salt & pepper to taste
Directions
Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Mix the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, green olives, feta cheese, and chopped parsley.
Add Dressing: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until everything is well coated.
Serve: Garnish with extra parsley and serve chilled or at room temperature. Perfect as a side dish or light lunch!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes (using pre-cooked rice)
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 240 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect salad every time. First, ensure your rice is fully cooled to prevent it from becoming gummy. While the rice cools, prepare your ingredients: halve the cherry tomatoes, slice the green olives, and crumble the feta cheese. Next, make the dressing by vigorously whisking the olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, and dried oregano in a small bowl until emulsified. Season with salt and pepper. In your large salad bowl, combine the cooled rice, tomatoes, all olives, feta, and parsley. Pour the dressing over the top. Using a large spoon and fork, gently fold the ingredients together until the dressing evenly coats everything. Avoid stirring aggressively to keep the ingredients intact.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile salad shines in multiple settings. Serve it chilled as a refreshing standalone lunch, perhaps with a side of warm pita bread. It makes an excellent side dish for grilled proteins like lemon-herb chicken, lamb kebabs, or pan-seared fish. For a heartier vegetarian meal, top it with canned chickpeas or grilled halloumi. Pack it for a picnic or potluck, as it travels well and benefits from the flavors melding together.
How-to Summary
Cool cooked rice. Chop vegetables and olives, crumble feta. Whisk dressing ingredients until combined. Gently toss all components in a large bowl with the dressing. Garnish and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time? Absolutely. Prepare it up to a day in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator. The flavors will intensify, making it even more delicious.
What can I use instead of feta cheese? For a dairy-free or different flavor profile, try cubed vegan feta, creamy goat cheese, or briny ricotta salata.
Is brown rice a good substitute? Yes, brown rice, quinoa, or couscous are excellent whole-grain alternatives. Adjust cooking times accordingly and ensure the grain is cooled.
How can I add more protein? Stir in a can of drained chickpeas, white beans, or flaked tuna. Grilled shrimp or shredded rotisserie chicken also pair beautifully.
My salad seems dry. How can I fix it? The rice may have absorbed the dressing. Simply whisk together another tablespoon of olive oil with a squeeze of lemon and toss it through the salad before serving.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid using warm rice, as it will steam the other ingredients and become mushy. Do not skip the acid (lemon juice/vinegar) in the dressing; it’s crucial for balancing the rich olives and feta. Refrain from over-stirring after adding the feta, or it will break down and muddy the salad’s appearance. Finally, do not undersalt—the feta and olives provide salt, but the rice and vegetables still need seasoning.
Conclusion
This Mediterranean Rice Salad is a celebration of vibrant, fresh flavors and effortless preparation. It’s a reliably delicious recipe that fits into any meal plan, from a quick weekday lunch to festive entertaining. By following the step-by-step guide and heeding the common pitfalls, you’ll create a stunning dish that’s as nutritious as it is flavorful. Enjoy the taste of the Mediterranean with every satisfying bite.