Citrus And Rice Salad
A vibrant citrus and rice salad featuring sweet mandarin oranges, crunchy vegetables, toasted pecans, and a tangy yogurt dressing, perfect for light lunches or picnics.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the mandarin oranges, reserving the juice.
- Mix the orange juice, water, raisins, salt, pepper, and dried tarragon in a saucepan.
- Bring to a boil; stir in the brown rice.
- Return to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Spread the rice mixture in a shallow pan and freeze for 10 minutes to cool.
- In a large bowl, toss the cooled rice with the mandarin oranges, sliced cucumber, sliced celery, green onions, toasted chopped pecans, and low-fat yogurt.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider substituting the dried tarragon with fresh herbs like parsley or basil. You can also use quinoa instead of rice for a gluten-free option. If you prefer a sweeter salad, add honey or maple syrup to the dressing. Ensure the rice is fully cooled before mixing to prevent wilting the veggies.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this salad chilled for a refreshing dish, perfect as a light lunch or a side at summer barbecues. It pairs beautifully with Simple Oven Roasted Vegetables. Consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal. Garnish with additional fresh herbs or a sprinkle of nuts for added texture.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the rice mixture in a microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture. Be cautious not to overheat the salad to preserve the freshness of the vegetables.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Citrus And Rice Salad contains roughly 17 calories, with 0g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 972mg per serving (42% 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 other fruits in this salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other fruits like pineapple, apples, or berries. Just ensure that the fruits complement the citrus flavor, and adjust the sweetness of the dressing accordingly.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this salad is great for meal prep! Prepare the rice and mix with the dressing ahead of time, and store the veggies separately until you're ready to serve. This keeps everything fresh and crunchy.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make this salad vegan, simply omit any dairy ingredients like yogurt. You can replace it with a dairy-free yogurt or avocado for creaminess. The dish is already naturally vibrant and full of flavor, making it a perfect fit for vegan recipes.
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).