Rice Salad(Hot Or Cold)
A versatile rice salad bursting with crunchy almonds, tangy artichokes, black olives, and fresh green onions, perfect served hot or cold for a flavorful, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the Fried Almond Rice-a-Roni according to package directions and let it cool.
- Add all remaining ingredients to the cooled rice mixture, including the mayonnaise, using only enough to make it stick together.
- Season with pepper to taste and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider toasting the slivered almonds before mixing them in. If you prefer a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise. Additionally, feel free to experiment with other vegetables like bell peppers or cherry tomatoes for a fresher taste. This dish can easily be made vegan by using plant-based mayonnaise. You can also serve it alongside Roasted Broccoli(Delicious!) for an even more nutritious meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the rice salad as a delightful side dish at barbecues or picnics, or make it a main dish by adding grilled chicken or shrimp. It pairs nicely with Poppy Seed Dressing And Salad for a complete meal. For a crunchy texture, top with additional slivered almonds just before serving. Enjoy it on its own or with some crusty bread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If the salad appears too dry after refrigeration, add a little more mayonnaise or a splash of lemon juice when serving. This dish can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature, making it a versatile option for meal prep.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rice Salad(Hot Or Cold) contains roughly 626 calories, with 9g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 62g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (36% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (26% of the Daily Value), and iron (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 673mg per serving (29% 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 Fried Almond Rice-a-Roni?
Yes, you can use cooked brown rice as a healthier alternative, but it will change the flavor and texture. You may want to add extra seasonings to mimic the flavor of the Fried Almond Rice-a-Roni. Just ensure the rice is well-cooled before mixing with the other ingredients.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this rice salad gluten-free, use a gluten-free rice blend instead of Rice-a-Roni. Make sure that all other ingredients, especially the mayonnaise and marinated artichoke hearts, are labeled gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy the dish without any gluten concerns.
What can I add to make this salad more filling?
To enhance the heartiness of the salad, consider adding protein sources like diced grilled chicken, chickpeas, or even crumbled feta cheese. You can also include cooked quinoa or other grains for added texture and nutrition. These additions will make it a satisfying main dish.
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).