Aunt Mae'S Rice Salad
A sweet, fruity rice salad with pineapple, marshmallows, and cherries, perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a refreshing dessert for family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the rice and allow it to cool.
- Drain the crushed pineapple.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, drained pineapple, miniature marshmallows, and sugar.
- Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Top with maraschino cherries before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of whipped cream or a splash of coconut milk. If you're looking to reduce sweetness, decrease the sugar to 1/4 cup or substitute with a natural sweetener like honey or agave. You can also try adding chopped nuts for extra crunch or swap out the cherries for fresh fruit, similar to what you'd find in Sunshine Salad (An Ebert Family Favorite).
Serving Suggestions
Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish at picnics or barbecues, or enjoy it as a sweet treat. It pairs beautifully with savory dishes like grilled chicken or pork. You can also use it as a topping for a fruit salad, offering a delightful contrast to the freshness of fruits similar to those in Zippy Tomato Relish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will meld together over time, enhancing the salad's taste. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave, but be cautious not to overheat as it may alter the texture of the rice and marshmallows.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Mae'S Rice Salad contains roughly 523 calories, with 9g protein, 114g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (87% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (56% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (47% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 627mg per serving (27% 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 white rice for this salad?
Yes, you can definitely use brown rice for a healthier option. Just keep in mind that brown rice has a chewier texture and a nuttier flavor, which may slightly change the overall taste of the salad. Ensure that the brown rice is fully cooked and cooled before mixing with other ingredients.
Is it possible to make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! This rice salad can be made a day in advance. In fact, making it ahead allows the flavors to develop more fully. Just store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container and give it a good stir before serving to redistribute the ingredients.
What can I substitute for maraschino cherries?
If you're looking for a substitute for maraschino cherries, consider using sliced fresh strawberries or diced peaches for a lighter, fruitier touch. Dried cherries or cranberries can also work well, adding a chewy texture and a hint of tartness that complements the sweetness of the salad.
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).