Fruited Rice
A sweet and fruity rice salad combining pasta, maraschino cherries, pineapple, and mandarin oranges, perfect for hot summer days or casual gatherings with a refreshing twist.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to the package directions, then drain and set aside.
- Drain the maraschino cherries, reserving the juice. In a saucepan, cook the cherry juice with sugar, flour, and eggs until thickened.
- Mix the thickened cherry sauce with the cooked pasta and chill for 2 to 4 hours or overnight.
- Drain the crushed pineapple and mandarin oranges.
- Cut the oranges and cherries in half, then fold the fruit and Cool Whip into the chilled pasta mixture.
- Chill the assembled dish before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the chilled pasta mixture. If you can't find rosamarina pasta, orzo is a great substitute. You can also use fresh fruits like diced apples or berries instead of canned options for a fresher taste, enhancing the dish with more vibrant flavors.
Serving Suggestions
This Fruited Rice dish is perfect for potlucks or picnics, and it pairs beautifully with grilled meats or a light salad like Granny Smith Salad. Consider serving it alongside other American recipes for a delightful spread. Garnish with additional fruit or a sprinkle of nuts for added texture and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain texture, avoid freezing as the pasta may become mushy. Serve chilled directly from the fridge, or let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to soften slightly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fruited Rice contains roughly 240 calories, with 3g protein, 55g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (28% 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 fresh fruit instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh fruit like peaches, strawberries, or apples can be used in place of canned fruit. Just be sure to chop them into small pieces and adjust the sweetness if needed since they might be less sweet than canned options.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make this dish vegan, substitute the eggs with flaxseed meal or a commercial egg replacer. Use a plant-based yogurt or whipped topping instead of Cool Whip, and ensure the pasta is egg-free. The overall flavor will remain delightful and suitable for a vegan diet.
What can I do if my sauce is too thick?
If your cherry sauce becomes too thick, simply whisk in a little water or additional cherry juice to achieve your desired consistency. Heat it gently over low heat while stirring until you reach the perfect thickness for mixing with the pasta.
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).