Carnival Rice Salad

Carnival Rice Salad Recipe - Brown Rice, Pinto Beans, Chicken, and Cheddar

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Carnival Rice Salad is a delicious and colorful dish that is perfect for a summer picnic or barbecue. This salad is packed with protein, fiber, and flavor, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal option.

History

Carnival Rice Salad is a popular dish in many Latin American countries, where it is often served at festivals and celebrations. The combination of rice, beans, chicken, and cheese creates a hearty and satisfying dish that is perfect for feeding a crowd.

Ingredients

3 cups cooked brown rice, cooled to room temperature
1 cup cooked pinto beans
1 cup chopped fresh tomato
1 cup cooked chicken cubes
1 cup (4 oz or 113 g) shredded cheddar or american cheese
1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
0.5 tsp salt
0.25 tsp ground black pepper
0.33 cup prepared italian dressing
lettuce leaves (optional)

How to prepare

Combine rice, beans, tomato, chicken, cheese, parsley, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Pour dressing over the rice mixture and toss lightly. Serve on lettuce leaves, if desired.

Variations

Add diced avocado or mango for a touch of sweetness and creaminess.
Substitute quinoa for the brown rice for a gluten-free option.
Use feta or mozzarella cheese instead of American cheese for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the rice and beans ahead of time and allow them to cool to room temperature before assembling the salad.

- You can use any type of cooked beans in this recipe, such as black beans or kidney beans.

- Feel free to customize this salad with your favorite vegetables or protein sources, such as grilled shrimp or tofu.

Serving Suggestions

Carnival Rice Salad can be served as a main dish or as a side dish alongside grilled meats or seafood. It pairs well with a simple green salad or fresh fruit.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cook the rice and beans according to package instructions for best results.

- Use a sharp knife to chop the tomatoes and parsley finely for a more uniform texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use canned beans instead of cooking your own for a quicker preparation time.

- Swap out the chicken for grilled shrimp or tofu for a vegetarian option.

Make Ahead Tips

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

Presentation Ideas

Serve Carnival Rice Salad in a large serving bowl or on individual plates lined with lettuce leaves for a colorful and appetizing presentation. Garnish with additional parsley or a sprinkle of cheese for added flair.

Pairing Recommendations

This salad pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. For a non-alcoholic option, try serving it with a refreshing iced tea or lemonade.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Carnival Rice Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply microwave the salad for 1-2 minutes or enjoy it cold straight from the fridge.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

320

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 38g

- Dietary Fiber: 5g

- Sugars: 2g

Fats

- Total Fat: 10g

- Saturated Fat: 4g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 20g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 15% DV

- Vitamin C: 20% DV

- Calcium: 25% DV

- Iron: 15% DV

Alergens

Contains dairy (cheese)

Summary

Carnival Rice Salad is a well-balanced meal that provides a good source of carbohydrates, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals. It is a nutritious and satisfying option for lunch or dinner.

Summary

Carnival Rice Salad is a flavorful and nutritious dish that is perfect for a summer gathering or weeknight dinner. Packed with protein, fiber, and fresh ingredients, this salad is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately hooked. It was at a grand carnival that had come to town, with colorful lights, cheerful music, and the tantalizing scent of carnival food wafting through the air. I wandered through the bustling crowds, taking in the sights and sounds, when I stumbled upon a small food stall tucked away in a corner.

The stall was run by a kindly old woman with twinkling eyes and a warm smile. She was busy stirring a large pot filled with a fragrant mixture of rice, colorful vegetables, and a medley of spices. I couldn't help but be drawn to the enticing aroma that wafted from the pot, filling my senses with a longing for a taste of whatever delicious concoction she was cooking up.

I approached the stall and struck up a conversation with the woman, who introduced herself as Maria. She told me that she had been traveling with the carnival for years, selling her famous Carnival Rice Salad to hungry patrons all over the country. As we chatted, she shared with me the story behind the recipe and how she had learned to make it.

Maria explained that the Carnival Rice Salad was a family recipe passed down through generations, originating from her grandmother who had been a talented cook in her own right. She told me how her grandmother had learned the recipe from a traveling chef who had stayed with her family for a time, teaching her the secrets of creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures in the dish.

As Maria spoke, I could see the passion and love she had for her family's recipe shining through in her eyes. She invited me to watch as she prepared a fresh batch of the Carnival Rice Salad, guiding me through each step with patience and grace. I watched in awe as she deftly chopped vegetables, added spices, and stirred the pot with the skill of someone who had been cooking for a lifetime.

After the salad was ready, Maria scooped out a generous portion into a small bowl and handed it to me with a smile. I took a tentative bite, savoring the explosion of flavors that danced on my taste buds. The rice was perfectly cooked, the vegetables were crisp and fresh, and the spices added a kick of heat that lingered on my tongue.

I couldn't help but be amazed at how a simple dish like rice salad could be transformed into something so extraordinary with the right combination of ingredients and techniques. Maria saw the wonder in my eyes and chuckled softly, telling me that cooking was not just about following a recipe, but about infusing every dish with love and care.

I thanked Maria for sharing her family's recipe with me and promised to carry on the tradition by making the Carnival Rice Salad for my own loved ones. As I left the carnival that night, my heart was full of gratitude for the chance encounter that had led me to discover this culinary gem.

Over the years, I have made the Carnival Rice Salad countless times, each batch a tribute to Maria and her grandmother's legacy. I have added my own twists and variations to the recipe, experimenting with different vegetables, spices, and seasonings to create a version that is uniquely mine.

But no matter how many times I make it, the Carnival Rice Salad always brings back memories of that magical night at the carnival, of Maria's warm smile and the taste of a dish that has captured my heart and soul. And as I serve it to my family and friends, I pass on the tradition of love and care that has been handed down through generations, a reminder that food is not just sustenance, but a celebration of life and all its wonders.