Healthy Brown Rice Salad Recipe
Embarking on a culinary adventure that combines health and flavor, this Healthy Brown Rice Salad is a delightful blend of fresh ingredients that not only nourishes the body but also tantalizes the taste buds. Perfect as a vibrant side dish or a light meal, this salad is a stunning addition to any table, guaranteed to impress at potlucks or gatherings.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Brown Rice (cooked) | 1/2 cup |
| Spinach Leaves (Palak) | 1 cup |
| Green Bell Pepper (Capsicum), cut into strips | 1/4 piece |
| Red Bell Pepper (Capsicum), cut into strips | 1/4 piece |
| Carrot (Gajjar), cut into thin strips | 1/2 piece |
| Sweet Corn, steamed | 1/4 cup |
| Strawberries, quartered | 5 to 6 pieces |
| Cranberries | 2 tablespoons |
| Onion, sliced | 1/4 piece |
| Badam (Almond), toasted and sliced | 2 tablespoons |
| Feta Cheese, crumbled | 50 grams |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Apple Cider Vinegar | 2 teaspoons |
| Honey | 1 teaspoon |
| Garlic, minced | 1 clove |
| Salt | 1 pinch |
| Black Pepper Powder, freshly cracked | 1 teaspoon |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 200 |
| Protein | 6 g |
| Total Fat | 10 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2 g |
| Carbohydrates | 28 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 4 g |
| Sugars | 5 g |
| Sodium | 120 mg |
Instructions
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Prepare the Base: Begin by layering the fresh spinach leaves on a large serving plate. This vibrant green base will provide both color and nutrients to your salad.
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Add the Brown Rice: Once your brown rice is cookedโpreferably in a pressure cooker for about 2 whistlesโspread it evenly over the spinach. The nutty flavor of the brown rice will add depth to the salad.
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Layer the Vegetables: Distribute the green and red bell pepper strips, thinly sliced carrot, steamed sweet corn, quartered strawberries, and sliced onion over the rice. The array of colors and textures will make the dish visually appealing.
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Garnish with Nuts and Cheese: Sprinkle the toasted and sliced almonds and cranberries on top for a delightful crunch and sweetness. Finally, crumble the feta cheese over the entire salad, enriching it with creamy flavor.
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Chill and Dress: If desired, refrigerate the salad until you’re ready to serve. For the dressing, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, minced garlic, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper in a small bowl. This dressing will elevate the salad, tying all the ingredients together harmoniously.
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Serve: Just before serving, drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Enjoy this healthy brown rice salad as a side dish with a bowl of guacamole soup or roasted tomato and pumpkin soup, or savor it as a refreshing meal on its own.
This Healthy Brown Rice Salad is not just a feast for the eyes but also a nourishing choice that makes a wonderful addition to your healthy eating repertoire. Whether youโre hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet meal at home, this salad is sure to leave a lasting impression on your palate and your guests!
