Description
For the Salad
2 cups cooked jasmine or basmati rice, cooled
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/3 cup dried cranberries
1/4 cup toasted almonds, sliced
1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
For the Lemon Dressing
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 teaspoon honey
1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Directions
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, feta cheese, dried cranberries, toasted almonds, red onion, and parsley.
Drizzle the lemon dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
Serve immediately or refrigerate for 15 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Prep Time: 10 minutes, Cooking Time: 15 minutes, Total Time: 25 minutes, Kcal: 280 per serving, Servings: 4
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Cook 1 cup of dry jasmine or basmati rice according to package instructions. Once cooked, spread it on a baking sheet to cool completely. This prevents a mushy salad.
2. While the rice cools, prepare your ingredients. Finely dice 1/4 cup of red onion and chop 1/4 cup of fresh parsley. Slice and toast 1/4 cup of almonds in a dry pan over medium heat until fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.
3. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, vigorously whisk 3 tablespoons of olive oil with 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, 1 teaspoon of lemon zest, 1 teaspoon of honey, and 1/2 teaspoon of Dijon mustard until emulsified. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine the 2 cups of cooled rice, 1/2 cup crumbled feta, 1/3 cup dried cranberries, the toasted almonds, red onion, and parsley.
5. Pour the dressing over the salad. Using a large spoon or spatula, gently fold the ingredients together until everything is evenly coated.
Serving Suggestions
This vibrant salad is versatile. Serve it as a standalone light lunch or as a flavorful side dish. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, salmon, or lamb chops. For a summer picnic, pack it in a sealed container—it travels well. To make it a more substantial meal, add a can of drained and rinsed chickpeas or shredded rotisserie chicken. Garnish with extra fresh parsley or mint just before serving for a color pop.
How-to Summary
Cool cooked rice, then mix with feta, cranberries, toasted almonds, red onion, and parsley. Whisk olive oil, lemon juice, zest, honey, and Dijon for the dressing. Toss everything together gently and serve chilled or at room temperature.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it up to a day in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator. Add a small splash of lemon juice before serving to refresh the flavors.
What can I use instead of feta cheese?
Goat cheese or crumbled queso fresco are excellent substitutes. For a dairy-free version, use a vegan feta alternative or simply omit it.
My rice salad turned out dry. What happened?
This usually occurs if the rice was too cold or compacted. Ensure your dressing is well-emulsified and toss the salad thoroughly. Letting it sit for 15 minutes before serving allows the rice to absorb the dressing.
Can I use a different type of rice?
Absolutely. Brown rice, quinoa, or couscous work well. Adjust cooking times accordingly and ensure the grain is cooled completely.
How should I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The almonds may soften slightly, but the flavors will continue to develop.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid using warm rice, as it will make the salad soggy and cause the feta to melt. Do not skip toasting the almonds; this step is crucial for depth of flavor and texture. Ensure you whisk the dressing vigorously to create a stable emulsion—a separated dressing won’t coat the ingredients evenly. Finally, do not over-mix the salad once combined, as this can break the rice grains and feta into a paste.
Conclusion
This Lemon Feta Rice Salad is a perfect harmony of tangy, sweet, and savory flavors, offering a quick and satisfying meal. Its simple preparation and make-ahead potential make it an ideal choice for busy weekdays or entertaining. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a consistently delicious dish that is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Enjoy the bright, refreshing taste of this versatile salad.
