Chinese Rice And Pea Salad
A vibrant, flavorful salad combining rice, peas, celery, onion, and shrimp, perfect for light lunches or potlucks with a refreshing Asian-inspired taste.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a large bowl.
- Toss everything together with the dressing.
Tips & Substitutions
For a vibrant flavor, consider adding a splash of soy sauce or sesame oil to the salad. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, substitute the shrimp with diced tofu or edamame. Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can enhance the dish significantly. Experiment with other vegetables, such as bell peppers or carrots, for added crunch in this Chinese recipe.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this salad chilled as a refreshing side dish or a light main course. It pairs beautifully with Garlic Prawns or Sweet 'N Sour Tuna for a complete meal. Consider adding a sprinkle of sesame seeds or sliced green onions on top for added texture and flavor. This dish is perfect for summer picnics or potlucks.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld and improve overnight. When reheating, add a splash of water and microwave in short intervals to prevent the rice from drying out. This salad can also be enjoyed cold straight from the fridge.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chinese Rice And Pea Salad contains roughly 498 calories, with 25g protein, 60g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (56% of the Daily Value), protein (51% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1555mg per serving (68% 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 make this salad in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a day ahead of time. Just keep the dressing separate until you're ready to serve to maintain the freshness of the ingredients. Once combined, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
What type of rice works best for this salad?
Jasmine or basmati rice are excellent choices due to their fragrant aroma and fluffy texture. For a healthier option, consider using brown rice, which adds more fiber and a nutty flavor that complements the vegetables well.
Can I add other proteins to this salad?
Absolutely! You can incorporate grilled chicken, diced ham, or even tofu for a vegetarian variation. The versatility of this salad allows for numerous protein options, making it adaptable to your preferences.
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).