Martha'S Salad
Martha's Salad is a refreshing, flavorful dish featuring rice, fresh vegetables, and a creamy dressing, perfect for potlucks, picnics, or light summer meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix cooked rice and chopped vegetables and let set overnight in the refrigerator.
- Mix Hidden Valley Ranch dressing with mayonnaise and milk as directed on the package.
- Let the dressing stand overnight.
- Before serving, combine the rice mixture with the dressing and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more flavorful salad, consider adding cooked bacon or diced chicken for protein. You can substitute the Hidden Valley Ranch dressing with a homemade version using Greek yogurt for a healthier twist. If you prefer a crunchier texture, toss in some chopped celery or cucumbers. Adjust the amount of mayonnaise based on your creaminess preference for this refreshing dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Martha's Salad as a side dish for grilled meats or alongside sandwiches for a light lunch. It pairs beautifully with Aunt Lea'S Pound Cake for a complete meal. For a vegetarian option, add avocado or chickpeas for extra texture and nutrition. Consider garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for added freshness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The rice may absorb the dressing, so you can add a splash of milk or more mayonnaise when serving for added creaminess. Avoid freezing as the texture of the vegetables may become mushy when thawed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Martha'S Salad contains roughly 605 calories, with 13g protein, 80g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (35% of the Daily Value), protein (26% of the Daily Value), and iron (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 773mg per serving (34% 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 brown rice instead of Minute rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time. Brown rice takes longer to cook, so ensure it's fully cooked and cooled before mixing with the vegetables. The final texture may differ slightly, offering a nuttier flavor in your salad.
How can I make this salad more colorful?
To add more color, include a variety of bell peppers in different shades, such as red and yellow, alongside the green pepper. You can also toss in shredded carrots or diced cucumbers for a vibrant look and added crunch, making your dish more visually appealing.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, Martha's Salad is gluten-free if you ensure that the ingredients used, especially the ranch dressing, are certified gluten-free. Always check labels when using pre-packaged items to avoid hidden gluten sources, making it a suitable option for gluten-sensitive individuals.
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).