This California Brown Rice Salad is a refreshing twist on traditional grain salads, combining the nutty texture of cooked brown rice with the sweet juiciness of California fruit cocktail. Diced tomatoes and crisp celery add a satisfying crunch and brightness, while a zesty dressing made from red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, and fresh tarragon ties everything together. It’s a colorful, nutrient-packed dish that holds up well at room temperature, making it perfect for potlucks, picnic lunches, or as a light side dish for summer dinners. The balance of sweet fruit and tangy vinaigrette creates a complex flavor profile that is both comforting and invigorating.
California Brown Rice Salad (Vegan
Description
This California Brown Rice Salad is a refreshing twist on traditional grain salads, combining the nutty texture of cooked brown rice with the sweet juiciness of California fruit cocktail. Diced tomatoes and crisp celery add a satisfying crunch and brightness, while a zesty dressing made from red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, and fresh tarragon ties everything together. It&# 226;ÂÂs a colorful, nutrient-packed dish that holds up well at room temperature, making it perfect for potlucks, picnic lunches, or as a light side dish for summer dinners. The balance of sweet fruit and tangy vinaigrette creates a complex flavor profile that is both comforting and invigorating.Ingredients
Directions
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Rinse the brown rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then cook according to package instructions until tender but firm.
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Spread the cooked rice on a large baking sheet or plate to allow it to cool completely to room temperature.
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Drain the California fruit cocktail well to remove excess syrup, which keeps the salad from becoming too watery.
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In a small bowl, whisk together the red wine vinegar, vegetable oil, Dijon mustard, tarragon, and garlic powder to create the vinaigrette.
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled brown rice, drained fruit cocktail, diced tomato, and sliced celery.
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Pour the prepared vinaigrette over the rice mixture and toss gently until all ingredients are evenly coated.
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Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld before serving.
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Give the salad a final stir and serve chilled or at room temperature.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 379.5kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 5.1g8%
- Saturated Fat 0.7g4%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 64.2mg3%
- Total Carbohydrate 83.2g28%
- Dietary Fiber 5.1g21%
- Sugars 54.4g
- Protein 3.5g8%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
