Vegetable salad with basmati rice

Fresh vegetable salad with basmati rice - an explosion of colors and flavors

If you're looking for a quick and healthy recipe that will delight your taste buds, you've come to the right place! This vegetable salad with basmati rice is not just an ideal side dish for meats, but also a light and nutrient-rich dinner. By combining fresh vegetables with the delicate flavor of basmati rice, you'll create a dish that brings joy both to the table and to the soul.

Total preparation time: 30 minutes
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooling time: 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 5-6 leaves of Chinese cabbage (about a handful)
- 200 g cherry tomatoes
- 2 green onions
- A bunch of fresh parsley
- 125 g cooked and cooled basmati rice
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, optional
- One lemon (for fresh juice)

A bit of history
Salads have been consumed long before they were named as such. People began combining different vegetables and herbs to diversify their diet, and today they are an essential part of healthy meals around the world. This salad with basmati rice combines the traditional richness of vegetables with the light texture of rice, creating a versatile dish perfect for any occasion.

Step by step

1. Preparing the ingredients
Start by washing all the vegetables: the Chinese cabbage, cherry tomatoes, and green onions. Use cold water and make sure to rinse them well to remove any impurities.

2. Cutting the vegetables
- Cherry tomatoes: Cut them into quarters to release their juice and natural flavor.
- Chinese cabbage: Cut the leaves into thin strips. Chinese cabbage is more delicate than regular cabbage and will add a crunchy texture to the salad.
- Green onions: Slice the stalks into thin rounds, using both the white and green parts for added color and flavor.

3. Chopping the parsley
Use a sharp knife to chop the fresh parsley. This will not only add a fresh aroma to the dish but also enhance the visual appeal with its vibrant green color.

4. Mixing the ingredients
In a large bowl, add the cabbage, cherry tomatoes, green onions, and chopped parsley. Mix well to combine all the vegetables.

5. Adding the rice
Add the cooked and cooled basmati rice to the bowl. Make sure the rice is well-cooled so it doesn't affect the texture of the fresh vegetables.

6. Seasoning
Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste. If you prefer a stronger flavor, feel free to add a bit of freshly ground pepper.

7. Adding lemon juice
Squeeze a lemon and add the juice to the mix. The acidity of the lemon juice will balance the flavors and add a note of freshness to the salad.

8. Cooling
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for 15 minutes. This step allows the flavors to meld and become more intense.

9. Serving
Serve the salad as a side dish alongside meat, fish, or even as a vegetarian main course. It's an excellent choice for a light yet filling dinner.

Practical tips
- Variations: You can add other vegetables, such as bell peppers, grated carrots, or cucumbers for even more texture. You can also experiment with different types of rice, such as wild rice or long-grain rice.
- Fresh ingredients: Use fresh vegetables for the best results. Always check their freshness before purchasing.
- Boosting nutrients: To make the salad even more nutritious, you can add nuts or sunflower seeds, which will add crunch and healthy fats.
- Pairing with drinks: A salad like this pairs perfectly with a glass of cold lemonade or mineral water with lemon to enhance the feeling of freshness.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use another type of rice?
Absolutely! Basmati rice is preferred for its flavor, but you can also try long-grain rice or brown rice for a healthier option.

- How can I store the salad for longer?
It's best to consume the salad fresh, but if you have leftovers, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

- Is this salad suitable for a diet?
Yes, the vegetable salad with basmati rice is a healthy option, full of vitamins and minerals, and can be included in various diets. You can adjust the portions of rice to fit your caloric needs.

Calories and nutritional benefits
A serving of vegetable salad with basmati rice contains approximately 180-220 calories, depending on the amount of rice and oil added. It is an excellent source of fiber, vitamins (A, C, K), and antioxidants, contributing to healthy digestion and strengthening the immune system.

In conclusion, this vegetable salad with basmati rice is not only simple and quick but also full of flavor and nutrients. You can customize the recipe to your taste and pair it with various dishes to create delicious and healthy meals. I invite you to try it and delight your family and friends with this vibrant dish!