Description
Mediterranean-inspired rice salad blends zesty Italian herbs with fresh vegetables and creamy feta. Colorful ingredients dance together, creating a light, refreshing dish that transports you to sunny coastal landscapes.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 400 grams (14.1 ounces) mixed rice, such as Camargue, wild, long-grain
- 150 grams (5.3 ounces) mixed nuts
- 75 grams (2.6 ounces) dried apricots
Herbs:
- 15 grams (0.5 ounces) fresh basil, about ½ bunch
- 15 grams (0.5 ounces) fresh mint, about ½ bunch
Seasoning:
- extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare long-grain rice according to package instructions in a medium saucepan, ensuring each grain becomes tender and fluffy. Drain thoroughly and allow to cool to room temperature, approximately 15-20 minutes.
- Carefully pluck fresh basil and mint leaves from their stems, then finely chiffonade the herbs to release their aromatic oils. Dice dried apricots into uniform, small cubes for consistent texture and flavor distribution.
- Gently fold the cooled rice with the chopped herbs and apricot pieces, creating a harmonious blend of grains and fresh ingredients. Season generously with freshly ground black pepper and hand-harvested sea salt, adjusting to personal taste preferences.
- Elegantly drizzle extra virgin olive oil over the rice mixture, ensuring an even coating that enhances the dish’s richness and complexity. Plate alongside grilled seafood or roasted meats for a complementary side dish that elevates the entire culinary experience.
Notes
- Select long-grain rice varieties for the best texture and absorption of flavors.
- Toast nuts slowly over low heat to release their natural oils and prevent burning.
- Chop herbs just before mixing to maintain their vibrant color and fresh aroma.
- Slice dried apricots into thin pieces for even distribution throughout the salad.
- Drizzle olive oil carefully, tasting as you go to achieve perfect moisture without greasiness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: British
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 5 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 50 g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg