Description
A vibrant Mediterranean Crispy Rice Salad combining golden, crispy rice with fresh vegetables, tangy feta, and an herby vinaigrette, perfect as a light and flavorful lunch or side dish, ready in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Crispy Rice:
- 2 cups cooked and chilled white or brown rice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt, to taste
For the Salad:
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup kalamata olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 small garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Crisp the rice: Heat olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the cooked rice in an even layer and press down gently. Let it cook undisturbed for 4–5 minutes or until golden and crispy on the bottom. Stir and crisp for another 2–3 minutes. Season with salt and let cool slightly.
- Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar or lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined to create a tangy vinaigrette.
- Assemble the salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the crispy rice, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, finely chopped red onion, sliced kalamata olives, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped fresh parsley, mint, and optional dill.
- Toss and serve: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine all the flavors. Serve immediately or let sit for 10–15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
Notes
- Use chilled cooked rice to achieve the best crispy texture.
- Brown rice can be substituted for white rice for a nuttier flavor and added fiber.
- Adjust the amount of garlic and herbs according to your preference.
- This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 1 day.
- For a vegan version, omit the feta or substitute with a plant-based cheese alternative.
