Salad D'Amour
A vibrant, crunchy salad featuring rice, fresh vegetables, nuts, and chow mein noodles, perfect for picnics or light gatherings, offering a mix of textures and flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pat dry all vegetables and ingredients with paper towel, except chow mein noodles.
- Prepare the sauce according to your preferred recipe (not provided).
- In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, chopped spinach, diced celery, yellow raisins, diced green pepper, chopped parsley, sliced scallions, cashews, and sliced mushrooms.
- Add the chow mein noodles to the mixture and toss gently to combine.
- Pour the sauce over the salad and mix thoroughly.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for later serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using a homemade dressing, such as Mrs. Patterson'S Tomato Sauce, to elevate the dish. You can substitute cashews with almonds or sunflower seeds for a different texture. Fresh herbs like basil or cilantro can also enhance the salad's taste. If you prefer a crunchier texture, add extra chow mein noodles right before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This vibrant salad can be served as a light main dish or as a side alongside grilled chicken or fish. It pairs beautifully with Harry'S Slaw for a refreshing meal. For a more filling option, consider adding protein such as chickpeas or shredded chicken. A chilled beverage like Fruit Punch With Sherbet can complement the meal perfectly.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the crispness of the chow mein noodles, keep them separate until ready to serve. When reheating, warm the rice mixture gently in the microwave, but it's best enjoyed fresh to preserve the salad's texture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Salad D'Amour contains roughly 554 calories, with 28g protein, 97g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (182% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (165% of the Daily Value), and potassium (85% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 799mg per serving (35% 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, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Just mix all ingredients except the chow mein noodles and dressing, and keep them refrigerated. Add the noodles and sauce just before serving to keep everything fresh and crunchy.
What can I substitute for rice if I’m looking for a low-carb option?
If you're seeking a low-carb alternative, consider using cauliflower rice or shredded zucchini instead of traditional rice. These substitutes will provide a similar texture while reducing the overall carb count in the salad.
Is it possible to make this salad vegan?
Absolutely! This salad is already quite adaptable for vegan diets. Just ensure that the sauce you use is vegan-friendly, and avoid any non-vegan toppings. You can enhance the flavor with nutritional yeast or a sprinkle of vegan cheese if desired.
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).