Description
For the Salad:
2 cups cooked brown rice, cooled
½ cup crumbled feta cheese
⅓ cup dried cranberries
½ cup chopped pecans, toasted
1 small apple, diced
¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
½ cup baby spinach, chopped
For the Apple Cider Dressing:
¼ cup olive oil
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Directions:
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper to make the dressing.
In a large bowl, combine brown rice, feta cheese, cranberries, toasted pecans, diced apple, red onion, and chopped spinach.
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.
Serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes to let the flavors blend.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (toasting pecans)
Total Time: 15 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal per serving
Servings: 4
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results every time. First, cook your brown rice according to package directions and allow it to cool completely. While it cools, toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant. Let them cool. Next, prepare all salad components: dice the apple, finely chop the red onion, chop the baby spinach, and crumble the feta cheese. For the dressing, combine ¼ cup olive oil, 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon honey, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper in a small bowl. Whisk vigorously until the mixture is fully emulsified. In your large serving bowl, combine the cooled rice, feta, cranberries, toasted pecans, apple, onion, and spinach. Drizzle the dressing over the top. Toss the salad gently but thoroughly to ensure every grain and piece is lightly coated. For best flavor, cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving, though it can be served immediately.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile salad pairs beautifully with a variety of mains. Serve it alongside grilled chicken, salmon, or pork chops for a complete meal. It’s also a fantastic standalone lunch. For a heartier vegetarian option, add a can of rinsed chickpeas or white beans. To make it a visually stunning potluck dish, serve it on a large platter garnished with extra apple slices and a sprinkle of fresh parsley or mint.
How-to Summary
In short: Whisk dressing ingredients. Combine all prepped salad ingredients in a large bowl. Drizzle with dressing, toss to coat, and chill briefly for flavors to meld.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes, but for best texture, combine all ingredients except the dressing, nuts, and apple. Store the salad base and dressing separately in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Add the apple, nuts, and dressing just before serving to prevent sogginess.
What can I use instead of brown rice? Quinoa, farro, or couscous make excellent gluten-free or whole-grain alternatives. Adjust cooking times according to the grain you choose.
How do I prevent the apple from browning? Toss the diced apple in a teaspoon of lemon juice before adding it to the salad. This will keep it looking fresh without significantly altering the flavor.
Is there a substitute for feta cheese? Goat cheese crumbles offer a similar tangy profile. For a dairy-free version, use a vegan feta alternative or simply omit it.
Can I use a different vinegar? Absolutely. White wine vinegar or a mild balsamic vinegar can work, but they will change the flavor profile from the intended bright, autumnal taste.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid using warm rice, as it will wilt the spinach and make the salad soggy. Ensure the rice is completely cooled. Do not skip toasting the pecans; this step is crucial for deepening their flavor and adding crunch. Be careful not to overdress the salad; start with ¾ of the dressing, toss, and add more only if needed. Finally, do not add the dressing hours in advance if you plan to have leftovers, as the rice will absorb it all and become mushy.
Conclusion
This Brown Rice Salad with Apple Cider Dressing is a perfect harmony of textures and flavors—chewy, crunchy, sweet, and tangy. It’s incredibly simple to prepare, nutritious, and adaptable to your pantry and dietary needs. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll create a crowd-pleasing dish that’s ideal for meal prep, a quick family dinner, or your next gathering. Enjoy this delicious and satisfying recipe!
