Classic Rice Salad Recipe
Category: Main Courses
Servings: 4
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Arborio Rice | 300g |
| Tuna in Oil | 200g |
| Ripe Tomatoes | 150g |
| Caciocavallo Cheese | 150g |
| Cooked Ham | 100g |
| Green Peas | 80g |
| Red Bell Peppers | 75g |
| Yellow Bell Peppers | 75g |
| Black Olives (pitted) | 80g |
| Pickled Gherkins | 80g |
| Chives | To taste |
| Fine Salt | To taste |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~320 kcal |
| Protein | ~12g |
| Carbohydrates | ~45g |
| Fat | ~8g |
| Fiber | ~4g |
| Sodium | ~450mg |
Instructions
-
Cook the Rice and Peas
Fill a large pot with water, add a generous pinch of fine salt, and bring it to a boil. Add the green peas to the boiling water. After a few minutes, add the Arborio rice to the same pot. Cook the rice 2–3 minutes less than the package instructions indicate, ensuring it retains a firm texture. Drain and let it cool to room temperature. -
-
Prepare the Vegetables
While the rice cooks, wash the red and yellow bell peppers. Remove the stems, seeds, and inner membranes, then slice them into thin strips before cutting into small cubes. Place these in a large mixing bowl, which will serve as the base for your salad. -
Dice and Slice Other Ingredients
Wash the ripe tomatoes thoroughly. Halve them and scoop out the seeds and pulp with a teaspoon. Dice the tomatoes into small chunks and add them to the bowl.Dice the cooked ham and the caciocavallo cheese into bite-sized cubes. Slice the pitted black olives and finely chop the pickled gherkins. Add all of these to the bowl with the peppers.
-
Combine and Season
Add the cooked and cooled rice and green peas to the bowl of prepared ingredients. Gently break apart the tuna fillets and mix them into the salad. Season the mixture with finely chopped chives, ensuring they are evenly distributed. Adjust the seasoning with fine salt according to your taste. -
Chill and Serve
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Before serving, give the salad a final stir to ensure all ingredients are well-combined.
Pro Tips:
- For a fresher twist, add a splash of lemon juice or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp white wine or a sparkling water infused with citrus slices.
Your Classic Rice Salad is now ready to be enjoyed! This vibrant and refreshing dish is perfect for summer lunches, picnics, or as a light main course for any occasion.
