Rice Salad From France
A vibrant French-inspired rice salad packed with fresh vegetables, tuna, and cheese, perfect for a light lunch or picnic. Its colorful ingredients and tangy dressing make it a crowd-pleaser, suitable for casual gatherings, picnics, or a quick weeknight dinner with bold, savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the cooked rice, chopped bell pepper, chopped tomato, chopped boiled eggs, drained tuna, drained corn, sliced olives, and cubed Cheddar cheese in a large bowl.
- In a small bowl, prepare an oil and vinegar dressing. Add salt, pepper, about a teaspoon of Dijon mustard, chopped parsley, and basil.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
- Serve chilled.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using brown rice instead of white for a nuttier taste. You can also substitute the tuna with cooked chicken or chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Fresh herbs like dill or chives can enhance the salad's freshness. If you prefer a creamier dressing, mix in a spoonful of Greek yogurt or mayonnaise with the oil and vinegar.
Serving Suggestions
This rice salad is perfect as a light lunch or as a side dish for grilled meats. It pairs beautifully with Stuffed Mushrooms(First Course For Two) or can be served alongside a fresh green salad. Garnish with additional olives or fresh herbs for an appealing presentation. Consider serving with crusty bread for a complete meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld and improve over time. If the salad becomes too dry after storing, simply add a splash of olive oil or a bit more dressing before serving. Avoid freezing as the texture of the ingredients may change.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rice Salad From France contains roughly 672 calories, with 39g protein, 50g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (81% of the Daily Value), protein (78% of the Daily Value), and calcium (63% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1064mg per serving (46% 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 rice salad can be made a day in advance. In fact, preparing it ahead allows the flavors to blend beautifully. Just keep it refrigerated and toss with dressing right before serving for the best texture.
What can I substitute for the Cheddar cheese?
If you're looking for alternatives to Cheddar cheese, try feta for a tangy flavor, or mozzarella for a milder taste. Vegan cheese options are also available if you're avoiding dairy.
Is this salad suitable for a picnic?
Absolutely! This rice salad is a great choice for picnics as it is served chilled and holds up well. Just be sure to keep it in a cooler until you're ready to serve, and consider packing the dressing separately to keep the salad fresh.
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).