Garden Rice Salad
A vibrant and refreshing rice salad combining fresh vegetables, creamy yogurt, and crunchy peanuts, perfect for picnics, potlucks, or light summer meals for 6 to 8 people.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook rice as directed on the package, omitting butter.
- Cool the cooked rice.
- Toss the cooled rice with chopped tomato, celery, cucumber, mayonnaise, plain yogurt, salt, and pepper.
- Cover and chill the salad.
- Before serving, garnish with peanuts.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding chopped herbs like parsley or dill. You can substitute Greek yogurt for plain yogurt for a tangier taste. If you prefer a crunchier texture, add bell peppers or radishes. To make it a heartier dish, include some cooked beans or chickpeas. This salad can also be made with brown rice for a nuttier flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this refreshing Garden Rice Salad as a light lunch or as a side dish at a barbecue. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish. For an elegant touch, serve it in lettuce cups or alongside a cheese platter featuring dishes like Cheese Salad - Congealed.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To refresh the salad before serving, add a splash of lemon juice or a bit more yogurt to enhance the flavors. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the ingredients may change.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Garden Rice Salad contains roughly 129 calories, with 2g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (14% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 933mg per serving (41% 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 ahead of time?
Yes, this salad is perfect for making ahead. Prepare it a few hours in advance or even the night before to allow the flavors to meld. Just be sure to keep it covered in the fridge until you're ready to serve.
What can I use instead of mayonnaise?
If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute the mayonnaise with more yogurt or avocado for creaminess. Additionally, a vinaigrette made with olive oil and vinegar can be a great alternative for a zesty twist.
Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Garden Rice Salad is completely vegetarian. It is a great option for those following vegetarian recipes, as it includes fresh vegetables and yogurt, making it wholesome and nutritious.
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).