Autumn Vineyard Rolls
Autumn Vineyard Rolls Recipe - Delicious Rice and Chicken Rolls
Introduction
Autumn Vineyard Rolls present a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, perfect for the season where the warmth of summer transitions into the crisp air of fall. This recipe is a celebration of harvest, combining the richness of avocados with the comforting taste of chicken and rice, accented by the saltiness of ham and the crunch of celery. It's a dish that promises not only a feast for the taste buds but also a nutritious meal that caters to a variety of dietary preferences.
History
The origins of Autumn Vineyard Rolls can be traced back to the culinary traditions that celebrate the harvest season. This recipe draws inspiration from the vineyard lunches in wine-producing regions, where meals are prepared with the bounty of the season. It's a modern take on the classic stuffed avocado, incorporating ingredients that are reminiscent of a vineyard's autumn harvest. Over time, it has evolved into a beloved dish for its versatility and the ease with which it can be prepared.
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked rice
- 1.5 to 2 cups cooked chicken cubes
- 1 cup sliced celery
- 0.5 cup diced cooked ham
- 0.25 cup sliced ripe olives
- 1 tbsp minced onion
- 0.75 to 1 cup mayonnaise
- 4 avocados
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- mayonnaise (optional)
How to prepare
- Combine rice, chicken, celery, ham, onion, and mayonnaise in a large bowl; toss lightly. Chill. Cut avocados in half, remove seeds, and peel; brush with lemon juice. Spoon salad into avocado halves. Top with mayonnaise, if desired.
Variations
- For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken and ham with grilled tofu or chickpeas. You can also experiment with different types of rice or add other vegetables like diced bell peppers or corn to the mix.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
To ensure the best flavor and texture, use ripe but firm avocados. Brushing lemon juice on the avocados not only adds a zesty flavor but also prevents them from browning. For a lighter version, you can substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a light mayonnaise. If you're looking to add a bit more crunch, consider adding chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts to the mix.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Autumn Vineyard Rolls on a bed of mixed greens or alongside a rustic whole grain bread for a more filling meal. Garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can add a fresh flavor contrast.
Cooking Techniques
The key to this recipe is in the preparation of the ingredients. Cooking the rice to the perfect texture and chilling it before mixing with the other ingredients ensures the salad is refreshing. Gently combining the ingredients helps maintain the textures of the individual components.
Ingredient Substitutions
If avocados are not available or not to your liking, large tomatoes can be used as an alternative vessel for the salad. Greek yogurt or a vegan mayonnaise can be used as a healthier or dietary-restriction-friendly substitute for traditional mayonnaise.
Make Ahead Tips
The rice and chicken mixture can be prepared a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Cut and prepare the avocados just before serving to prevent them from browning.
Presentation Ideas
For an elegant presentation, arrange the stuffed avocados on a platter garnished with edible flowers or fresh herbs. Drizzling a balsamic reduction around the avocados can add a touch of sophistication and a burst of flavor.
Pairing Recommendations
Pair Autumn Vineyard Rolls with a crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or a Chardonnay, to complement the creamy texture of the avocados and the richness of the filling.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
It's best to consume Autumn Vineyard Rolls fresh. However, any leftover filling can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Avoid storing cut avocados as they tend to brown and lose their texture.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Autumn Vineyard Rolls contains approximately 350 calories. This makes it a moderately calorie-dense dish, suitable for a fulfilling meal that supports an active lifestyle.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of Autumn Vineyard Rolls contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates. The primary source of carbohydrates in this dish comes from the cooked rice and avocados, providing energy to fuel your day.
Fats
This dish is relatively high in healthy fats, primarily from the avocados, which are rich in monounsaturated fats. The total fat content per serving is around 22 grams, with 3.5 grams of saturated fat, mainly from the mayonnaise and chicken.
Proteins
Autumn Vineyard Rolls are a good source of protein, with each serving providing approximately 18 grams of protein. The chicken and ham contribute the majority of the protein, making this dish a satisfying option for muscle repair and growth.
Vitamins and minerals
Avocados are a powerhouse of nutrients, offering a significant amount of vitamins C, E, K, and B-6, as well as riboflavin, niacin, folate, pantothenic acid, magnesium, and potassium. The chicken and ham add to the dish's vitamin and mineral content, particularly in terms of B vitamins and iron.
Alergens
The primary allergens in this dish include eggs (from the mayonnaise) and potentially gluten (depending on the mayonnaise brand and if any ingredients with gluten were used in the chicken and ham preparation). It's always advisable to check the labels of purchased ingredients for allergens.
Summary
Autumn Vineyard Rolls offer a balanced mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats, along with a variety of vitamins and minerals. It's a nutritious dish that supports overall health while satisfying the palate.
Summary
Autumn Vineyard Rolls are a versatile and nutritious dish that celebrates the flavors of the season. With a balance of textures and nutrients, it's a satisfying meal that can be adapted to suit various dietary needs and preferences. Whether served as a light lunch or a part of a larger meal, it's a dish that is sure to impress.
How did I get this recipe?
The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with a sense of awe. It was a crisp autumn day, the leaves were turning shades of gold and red, and the air was filled with the smell of ripe grapes from the vineyards nearby. I had been invited to a gathering at a friend's vineyard, and when I arrived, I was greeted with the most incredible spread of food I had ever seen.
As I wandered through the tables laden with dishes, my eyes fell upon a platter of beautiful golden rolls. They were brushed with a shiny glaze and sprinkled with seeds and herbs, giving them a rustic and inviting appearance. I couldn't resist picking one up and taking a bite. The taste was unlike anything I had ever experienced before - sweet and savory, with a hint of earthiness from the seeds.
I immediately sought out the hostess, a kind older woman with a twinkle in her eye. I asked her about the rolls, and she smiled knowingly. "Ah, you've discovered my Autumn Vineyard Rolls," she said. "They are a family recipe, passed down through generations. Would you like to learn how to make them?"
I was overjoyed at the offer and eagerly accepted. We spent the afternoon in her warm and cozy kitchen, surrounded by the aroma of fresh bread baking in the oven. She showed me each step of the process, from kneading the dough to shaping the rolls and brushing them with the glaze. As we worked, she shared stories of her own grandmother, who had taught her the recipe when she was just a young girl.
I listened intently, soaking up every detail and committing the recipe to memory. The rolls were a labor of love, requiring patience and precision, but the end result was well worth the effort. When they emerged from the oven, golden and fragrant, I knew that I had found a new favorite recipe to add to my collection.
From that day on, the Autumn Vineyard Rolls became a staple at my own family gatherings. I would bake them for holidays, birthdays, and special occasions, always with a sense of pride and nostalgia for the day I learned the recipe from my friend at the vineyard.
Over the years, I have made a few tweaks to the original recipe, adding my own personal touch with different herbs and seeds. Each batch is a unique creation, but the essence of the rolls remains the same - a taste of autumn in every bite.
As I grow older, I find myself passing the recipe down to my own grandchildren, just as it was passed down to me. I hope that they will continue the tradition, sharing the rolls with their friends and loved ones and creating new memories around the table.
The Autumn Vineyard Rolls have become more than just a recipe to me - they are a connection to the past, a link to my heritage, and a symbol of the love and care that goes into every dish I create. I am grateful for the day I first saw that platter of rolls at the vineyard, and for the kind woman who shared her family recipe with me. In every batch I bake, I feel her presence, guiding me and reminding me of the joy that comes from sharing a meal with those you love.
Categories
| American Recipes | American Salads | Avocado Recipes | Black Olive Recipes | Chicken Recipes | Ham Recipes | Mayonnaise Recipes | Rice Recipes | Salad Recipes |