Calico Rice Salad

Calico Rice Salad Recipe - A Flavorful American Classic

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 0 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Calico Rice Salad is a colorful and flavorful dish that is perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a side dish for any meal. This salad is a delicious combination of cooked rice, crunchy vegetables, sharp cheddar cheese, and a creamy salad dressing.

History

The origins of Calico Rice Salad are unclear, but it is believed to have originated in the United States. This dish became popular in the mid-20th century and has since become a classic recipe that is loved by many.

Ingredients

3 cups of cooked rice
1 cup of thinly sliced celery
1 medium tomato, diced
0.5 cup of diced green pepper
0.5 cup of finely chopped onion
0.5 cup (2 oz or 57 g) of diced sharp cheddar cheese
0.5 cup of mayonnaise or salad dressing
0.5 tsp of salt
0.5 tsp of seasoned pepper
lettuce leaves

How to prepare

In a large bowl, combine rice, celery, tomato, green pepper, onion, and cheese.
Chill the mixture.
When you are ready to serve, add mayonnaise, salt, and seasoned pepper. Toss lightly.
Serve the salad on lettuce leaves.
Alternatively, for a festive touch, pack the salad firmly into a 6 cup ring mold.
Unmold the salad onto lettuce leaves.

Variations

Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for added protein.
Use different vegetables, such as bell peppers, cucumbers, or carrots.
Substitute the cheddar cheese with feta or goat cheese for a different flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the rice according to package instructions and allow it to cool completely before making the salad.

- For added flavor, you can use a flavored rice blend or add herbs and spices to the salad dressing.

- Feel free to customize the salad by adding your favorite vegetables or protein, such as cooked chicken or shrimp.

Serving Suggestions

Calico Rice Salad can be served as a side dish with grilled chicken, fish, or burgers. It can also be enjoyed on its own as a light and refreshing meal.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making a delicious Calico Rice Salad is to cook the rice perfectly and allow it to cool completely before mixing it with the other ingredients. Be sure to chill the salad before serving for the best flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have cheddar cheese, you can use any other type of cheese that you prefer. You can also use a different type of salad dressing or mayonnaise for a different flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Calico Rice Salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just be sure to add the salad dressing right before serving to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.

Presentation Ideas

For a festive presentation, you can pack the salad into a ring mold and unmold it onto a serving platter. Garnish with fresh herbs or additional cheese before serving.

Pairing Recommendations

Calico Rice Salad pairs well with grilled meats, seafood, or vegetarian dishes. It also goes well with a side of fresh fruit or a green salad.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Calico Rice Salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply microwave the salad for a few seconds or enjoy it cold.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Calico Rice Salad contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Calico Rice Salad contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Calico Rice Salad contains approximately 15 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Calico Rice Salad contains approximately 8 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Calico Rice Salad is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, calcium, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheddar cheese) and mayonnaise, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Calico Rice Salad is a balanced dish that provides carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Calico Rice Salad is a delicious and versatile dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its colorful ingredients and creamy dressing, this salad is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I can still remember the exact moment I discovered this recipe for Calico Rice Salad. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret for our weekly bridge game. As we sat around the table, nibbling on sandwiches and sipping tea, Margaret suddenly pulled out a colorful bowl filled with what looked like a vibrant rainbow.

"What's this?" I asked, intrigued by the array of colors and textures in the bowl.

"This, my dear, is my famous Calico Rice Salad," Margaret replied with a twinkle in her eye. "I learned this recipe from my Aunt Millie many years ago, and it has been a family favorite ever since."

I took a bite of the salad and was instantly hooked. The combination of crunchy vegetables, tender rice, and tangy dressing was simply divine. I begged Margaret for the recipe, and she kindly agreed to share it with me.

Over the years, I have made my own tweaks and adjustments to the recipe, adding in different ingredients and experimenting with new flavors. But the essence of the dish has remained the same, a colorful and refreshing salad that never fails to impress.

As I sit down to write out the recipe for Calico Rice Salad, I am flooded with memories of all the wonderful meals I have shared with family and friends. Each bite of this salad is a reminder of the love and laughter that has filled my kitchen over the years.

To make this delicious dish, you will need:

- 1 cup of cooked white rice

- 1 cup of cooked wild rice

- 1 cup of diced red bell pepper

- 1 cup of diced yellow bell pepper

- 1 cup of diced cucumber

- 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved

- 1/2 cup of chopped fresh parsley

- 1/4 cup of sliced green onions

- 1/4 cup of crumbled feta cheese

- For the dressing:

- 1/4 cup of olive oil

- 2 tablespoons of red wine vinegar

- 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard

- 1 teaspoon of honey

- Salt and pepper to taste

To start, combine the cooked white rice and wild rice in a large bowl. Add in the diced red and yellow bell peppers, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, parsley, green onions, and feta cheese. Toss everything together until well combined.

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the rice and vegetable mixture, and toss to coat evenly.

Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld together. When you are ready to serve, give the salad a final toss and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

As I take a bite of the Calico Rice Salad that I have just prepared, I am transported back to that summer day when I first tasted this dish at Margaret's house. The flavors are just as vibrant and delicious as I remember, and I am filled with gratitude for the friendships and experiences that have enriched my life.

This recipe for Calico Rice Salad has become a staple in my kitchen, a dish that I turn to time and time again to bring joy and flavor to any meal. I hope that you will enjoy making and sharing this salad with your loved ones, just as I have done for so many years.

So here it is, my dear friends and family, the recipe for Calico Rice Salad. May it bring you as much happiness and satisfaction as it has brought me. Bon appétit!