This vibrant dish transforms simple garden ingredients into a sophisticated side or light meal. Juicy ripe tomatoes are hollowed out and stuffed with a refreshing mixture of cooked long-grain rice, crisp diced cucumber, and a bright dressing of lemon juice and olive oil. The addition of dried basil and white pepper adds a subtle aromatic warmth that complements the fresh acidity. Perfect for warm summer evenings, potlucks, or as a healthy vegan option, this salad offers a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. It is easy to prepare ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully before serving.
Tomatoes With Rice-And-Cucumber Salad – Country Living
Description
This vibrant dish transforms simple garden ingredients into a sophisticated side or light meal. Juicy ripe tomatoes are hollowed out and stuffed with a refreshing mixture of cooked long-grain rice, crisp diced cucumber, and a bright dressing of lemon juice and olive oil. The addition of dried basil and white pepper adds a subtle aromatic warmth that complements the fresh acidity. Perfect for warm summer evenings, potlucks, or as a healthy vegan option, this salad offers a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. It is easy to prepare ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully before serving.Ingredients
Directions
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Cook the long-grain white rice according to package instructions until tender, then drain and let cool completely.
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Cut the large ripe tomatoes in half horizontally and carefully scoop out the seeds and pulp, leaving a thin shell intact.
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Dice the seeded cucumber into small, uniform pieces.
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In a large bowl, combine the cooled cooked rice, diced cucumber, extra-virgin olive oil, lemon juice, dried basil, ground white pepper, and salt.
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Toss the rice and cucumber mixture gently to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
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Spoon the rice salad mixture into the hollowed-out tomato halves, filling them generously.
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Arrange the stuffed tomatoes on a serving platter and serve immediately.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 8
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 139.6kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 11.4g18%
- Saturated Fat 1.6g8%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 2437.9mg102%
- Total Carbohydrate 8.7g3%
- Dietary Fiber 0.2g1%
- Sugars 0.1g
- Protein 0.9g2%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
For best flavor, allow the rice to cool completely before mixing with the cucumber to prevent it from becoming mushy.
If you prefer a fresher herb flavor, substitute the dried basil with 1 tablespoon of finely chopped fresh basil leaves.
This salad can be assembled up to 2 hours ahead of time. Cover loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Choose tomatoes that are firm but ripe to ensure they hold their shape when stuffed.
