This Spinach Rice Salad offers a delightful twist on traditional cold rice dishes, combining fluffy cooked rice with fresh spinach and crisp green onions. The dressing, a unique blend of Italian vinaigrette, soy sauce, and a touch of sugar, provides a savory-sweet profile that coats every grain. While the base is vegan-friendly, the addition of crumbled bacon adds a smoky, crispy contrast that elevates the texture. Perfect for potlucks, summer picnics, or as a hearty side dish for grilled meats, this salad is best served chilled. The flavors meld beautifully as it rests, making it an ideal make-ahead option for busy weeknights or entertaining.
Spinach Rice Salad
Description
This Spinach Rice Salad offers a delightful twist on traditional cold rice dishes, combining fluffy cooked rice with fresh spinach and crisp green onions. The dressing, a unique blend of Italian vinaigrette, soy sauce, and a touch of sugar, provides a savory-sweet profile that coats every grain. While the base is vegan-friendly, the addition of crumbled bacon adds a smoky, crispy contrast that elevates the texture. Perfect for potlucks, summer picnics, or as a hearty side dish for grilled meats, this salad is best served chilled. The flavors meld beautifully as it rests, making it an ideal make-ahead option for busy weeknights or entertaining.Ingredients
Directions
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Cook the rice according to package directions, omitting any margarine or oil.
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Transfer the cooked rice and any remaining liquid to a shallow pan.
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Let the rice stand until all liquid is fully absorbed.
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In a small bowl, whisk together the Italian salad dressing, soy sauce, and sugar until smooth.
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Pour the dressing mixture over the cooked rice and stir gently to combine.
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Cover the rice mixture and refrigerate for at least 6 hours to chill and allow flavors to meld.
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Just before serving, fold in the fresh spinach, sliced green onions, and crumbled bacon.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 50
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 27.6kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 0.1g1%
- Saturated Fat 0.0g0%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 0.2mg1%
- Total Carbohydrate 6.0g2%
- Dietary Fiber 0.1g1%
- Sugars 0.0g
- Protein 0.6g2%
* 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
The recipe mentions specific rice brands like Uncle Ben's and Converted Brand; ensure you follow the specific cooking instructions for your chosen rice type.
For a vegan version, simply omit the bacon. You can add toasted nuts like pine nuts or slivered almonds for extra crunch and texture.
Fresh spinach should be washed and dried thoroughly to prevent the salad from becoming watery.
This salad is best served chilled. Allow it to rest in the refrigerator for the full recommended time for optimal flavor.
