Cold Buffet Rice Dish
A vibrant cold rice salad infused with fresh herbs, vegetables, and a tangy vinaigrette, perfect for summer gatherings or light lunches. It combines crunch and flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute parsley, onions, and green peppers until soft but not brown.
- Add cooked rice, frozen peas, oil, vinegar, salt, and tarragon to the sautéed vegetables.
- Toss all ingredients together and let stand overnight in the refrigerator.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider substituting fresh herbs like basil or dill for the parsley or tarragon. If you prefer a bit more crunch, add some diced cucumber or celery. You can also use brown rice for a nuttier flavor. To save time, use pre-cooked rice or leftover rice from a previous meal. This dish can be easily adjusted to suit vegan recipes by ensuring the oil is plant-based.
Serving Suggestions
This cold buffet rice dish is perfect for summer gatherings or picnics. Serve it alongside grilled meats or as part of a vegetarian spread. It pairs beautifully with Marinated Carrotslincoln, Nebraska, and can be a delightful addition to a brunch table. Garnish with additional fresh herbs for a vibrant presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover rice dish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply add a splash of water and microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. Alternatively, serve it cold as a refreshing side dish; the flavors will continue to meld in the fridge.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cold Buffet Rice Dish contains roughly 423 calories, with 17g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (128% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (128% of the Daily Value), and potassium (50% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1919mg per serving (83% 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 dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, this dish is best when made a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld together in the refrigerator overnight. Just cover it well and keep it chilled until you're ready to serve.
What can I substitute for frozen peas?
If you don't have frozen peas, you could use edamame or diced bell peppers for a similar texture. Alternatively, fresh peas, if in season, can be blanched and added for a fresher taste.
Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, this cold rice dish is naturally gluten-free as long as you ensure the vinegar and any additional ingredients you might use are also gluten-free. It makes a great option for those avoiding gluten while still enjoying a flavorful meal.
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).