Mimaw'S Cool Rice Salad
Mimaw's Cool Rice Salad is a refreshing, creamy dish perfect for picnics or light summer lunches. Combining tender instant rice with sweet peas, crunchy pickles, and a tangy mayonnaise dressing, it offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures that appeal to those seeking a cool, satisfying side or main dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a covered saucepan, bring peas, salt, and water to a boil. Remove from heat.
- Stir in instant rice and minced onion.
- Cover and let stand for 13 minutes.
- Cool the mixture.
- Stir in mayonnaise and chopped dill pickles.
- Chill before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more vibrant flavor, consider adding some finely chopped bell peppers or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. If you don't have instant rice, you can substitute it with regular rice, but adjust the cooking time accordingly. You can also use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter option, especially if you're looking for healthier American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This salad works wonderfully as a light lunch or a side dish at barbecues and picnics. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish. For a complete meal, serve it alongside Sweet And Sour Wieners or with a slice of Skinny Cake for dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover rice salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If the salad thickens, you can stir in a little more mayonnaise or yogurt before serving. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change when thawed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mimaw'S Cool Rice Salad contains roughly 100 calories, with 4g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1191mg per serving (52% 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 rice salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad can be made a day in advance. Just prepare it as directed, and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, enhancing the overall taste when served.
What variations can I try with this recipe?
You can customize this salad by adding ingredients like diced celery, shredded carrots, or even crumbled bacon for a different twist. For a vegan version, replace the mayonnaise with a plant-based alternative and use vegetable broth instead of water.
How do I prevent the rice from becoming mushy?
To prevent mushiness, make sure to follow the instructions for letting the rice sit covered for exactly 13 minutes. Using instant rice also helps maintain the right texture, as it absorbs water quickly without overcooking.
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).