Alberta Salad
A refreshing cold salad featuring rice, seafood, and vegetables, perfect for light lunches or potlucks, with creamy mayonnaise and fresh flavors complemented by optional crunchy toppings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the rice in boiling water until tender, then drain and let cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, tomato juice, cooked peas, minced green onions, and the can of shrimp or crab.
- Mix in mayonnaise until well combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Optional: Add chopped celery, radishes, cucumber, bell peppers, or roasted sunflower seeds for extra flavor and crunch.
- Chill the salad before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. If you prefer a different protein, canned tuna or chicken can be substituted for shrimp or crab. Adding fresh herbs like dill or parsley can enhance the flavor. To achieve the best taste, allow the salad to chill for at least an hour before serving to let the ingredients meld together.
Serving Suggestions
This Alberta Salad makes for a refreshing main dish on warm days and pairs beautifully with Garlic Broiled Shrimp for a complete seafood meal. Serve it alongside crusty bread or with a side of mixed greens. For a potluck or picnic, consider serving it in individual cups for easy sharing.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to develop as it sits. When ready to eat, give it a good stir and add a little extra mayonnaise if it seems dry. It is best enjoyed cold, so there’s no need to reheat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Alberta Salad contains roughly 488 calories, with 11g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 40g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (38% of the Daily Value) and protein (21% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2442mg per serving (106% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of long grain rice?
Yes, brown rice can be used as a healthier alternative, though it may require a longer cooking time and will change the texture slightly. Make sure to adjust the liquid ratio accordingly, as brown rice typically needs more liquid than white rice.
Is it possible to make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! This salad is perfect for making ahead. Prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld beautifully, making it even more delicious when served the next day.
What can I substitute for tomato juice?
If you don’t have tomato juice, you can use V8 juice or a blend of pureed tomatoes and vegetable broth as a substitute. This will maintain the salad's flavor profile while providing a similar consistency.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).