Chilled Rice Salad
A refreshing chilled rice salad featuring tender rice pilaf, earthy mushrooms, and crisp green onions, dressed in a tangy vinaigrette. Perfect for light lunches, picnics, or summer gatherings, it offers a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that appeal to both vegetarians and those seeking a cool, wholesome dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Toss cooked and cooled rice pilaf, sliced mushrooms, and minced green onions together in a large bowl.
- Combine olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and freshly ground pepper in a small bowl or jar with a tight-fitting lid and blend well.
- Pour the dressing over the rice mixture and toss to coat evenly.
- Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a refreshing twist, consider adding diced cucumbers or bell peppers to the salad. If you want a heartier version, include some chickpeas or feta cheese for protein. You can substitute the rice pilaf with quinoa for a gluten-free option. Adjust the vinegar and mustard to taste for a dressing that suits your preferences.
Serving Suggestions
This chilled rice salad is perfect as a light lunch or side dish at picnics and barbecues. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or seafood, making it a versatile addition to your meal. For a full Mediterranean experience, serve it alongside Greek potatoes or a Cool Vegetable Salad for a refreshing meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chilled rice salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will meld even more as it sits. To serve, you can enjoy it cold or let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving for better texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chilled Rice Salad contains roughly 94 calories, with 3g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (25% of the Daily Value) and vitamin D (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad can be made a day in advance. Just be sure to store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. The flavors will improve as it chills, making it a great option for meal prep or gatherings.
What other vegetables can I add?
You can customize this salad with various vegetables like diced tomatoes, grated carrots, or roasted red peppers. These additions not only enhance the flavor but also add vibrant colors to the dish, making it visually appealing.
Is this recipe suitable for vegan diets?
Yes, this chilled rice salad is vegan-friendly as it contains no animal products. It’s a great option for those following vegan recipes, and you can enhance its nutritional value by adding nuts or seeds for extra protein and crunch.
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).