Mayor Sal Mancini'S Summer Rice Salad
A vibrant and hearty summer rice salad bursting with fresh vegetables, eggs, and bold Italian flavors. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or light lunches, this dish combines warm rice with crisp celery, carrots, tomatoes, and seasoned dressing for a satisfying and colorful meal.
Ingredients
- 3 tsp mustard
- 2 cups uncooked rice ⓘ
- 3 or 4 carrots, diced and chopped ⓘ
- 4 hard-boiled eggs, diced and chopped
- 4 stalks celery, diced and chopped ⓘ
- 2 onions, diced and chopped ⓘ
- 4 tomatoes, diced and chopped ⓘ
- 2 envelopes Good Seasons salad dressing ⓘ
- 2 Tbsp grated Italian macaroni cheese ⓘ
- salt to taste ⓘ
Instructions
- Cook the rice and drain well.
- Follow the directions on the Good Seasons salad dressing packets.
- Combine all ingredients while the rice is still warm.
- Chill the salad before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using brown rice instead of white, which adds more fiber and nutrients. If you're short on time, pre-cooked rice can work in a pinch. Feel free to mix in other veggies, like bell peppers or peas, to customize the flavor. Using different types of vinegar in the dressing can also add a unique twist to the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this vibrant salad as a main dish or as a side with grilled meats or fish. It pairs beautifully with Last-Minute Rolls for a complete meal. For a vegetarian option, enjoy it alongside a light soup. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for an extra touch of freshness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld as it sits, enhancing the taste. To reheat, gently warm the rice in the microwave, but it's also delicious served cold or at room temperature, making it a versatile dish for picnics or barbecues.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mayor Sal Mancini'S Summer Rice Salad contains roughly 425 calories, with 10g protein, 84g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (69% of the Daily Value) and protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 876mg per serving (38% 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?
Absolutely! This salad is perfect for making ahead. Prepare it a day in advance and let it chill in the refrigerator. The flavors will deepen and improve overnight, making it an ideal dish for gatherings or meal prep.
What can I substitute for the hard-boiled eggs?
If you're looking for a vegan option or want to avoid eggs, consider using diced avocado or chickpeas for added creaminess and protein. Both options will complement the other ingredients well and keep the salad hearty.
Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! This salad is naturally gluten-free as long as you ensure your salad dressing packets are labeled gluten-free. Most rice varieties are gluten-free, making it a safe option for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
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).