Lemon & Asparagus Brown Rice Salad
๐ Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 15 minutes | Servings: 8
Description:
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of this Lemon & Asparagus Brown Rice Salad, a delightful fusion of nutty brown rice, tender asparagus, and zesty lemon accents. Bursting with freshness from mint and parsley, this salad is a healthy, low-cholesterol dish that’s quick to whip up, making it an ideal choice for busy days or as a side dish for gatherings. ๐๐ฟ
Ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked brown rice
- 2 bunches asparagus, trimmed and chopped
- 1/3 cup fresh mint, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
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Prepare Ingredients: Begin by gathering all the ingredients needed for the salad.
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Combine Rice and Vegetables: In a large serving bowl, gently stir together the cooked brown rice, chopped asparagus, mint, and parsley until well combined.
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Prepare Lemon Dressing: In a small cup or bowl, mix together the lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and minced garlic to create a tangy dressing.
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Incorporate Dressing: Pour the lemon dressing over the rice and vegetable mixture, ensuring it is evenly distributed throughout.
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Add Olive Oil and Seasoning: Drizzle the olive oil over the salad, then season with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences. Give it a final gentle stir to incorporate all the flavors.
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Chill and Serve: Cover the salad bowl and refrigerate it for up to 2 days to allow the flavors to meld together. Before serving, let it stand at room temperature for about 1 hour to enhance the flavors.
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Serve: Once ready, dish out the Lemon & Asparagus Brown Rice Salad onto serving plates or bowls. Garnish with additional lemon zest or fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy this nutritious and delicious salad with family and friends!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 126.3
- Total Fat: 4.1g
- Saturated Fat: 0.6g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 9.4mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20.2g
- Dietary Fiber: 2.6g
- Sugars: 0.8g
- Protein: 3g
Recipe Notes:
- Feel free to customize this salad by adding other vegetables or protein sources like grilled chicken or tofu.
- For added texture and crunch, you can toss in some toasted nuts or seeds such as almonds or pumpkin seeds.
- This salad can be served as a light meal on its own or paired with grilled fish or shrimp for a heartier option.
- Ensure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor and nutritional value.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
