Easy Cool Cucumber Rice Salad Recipe from USA

Cool Cucumber Rice Salad

Easy Cool Cucumber Rice Salad Recipe from USA
Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 0 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Cool Cucumber Rice Salad
Cool Cucumber Rice Salad

Cool Cucumber Rice Salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish that is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for a summer barbecue. The combination of rice, crunchy cucumber, and colorful vegetables tossed in a tangy dressing makes this salad a crowd-pleaser.

History

Cool Cucumber Rice Salad is a modern twist on traditional rice salads that have been enjoyed for centuries in various cultures around the world. The addition of cucumber and a zesty dressing gives this dish a fresh and vibrant flavor that is perfect for warm weather.

Ingredients

How to prepare

  1. Combine rice, cucumber, bell pepper, and radishes in a large bowl. Blend salad dressing, mustard, and pepper; toss with the rice mixture. Chill. Serve on lettuce leaves.

Variations

  • Add grilled shrimp or chicken for a protein boost.
  • Substitute quinoa or couscous for the rice for a different texture.
  • Add feta cheese or olives for a Mediterranean twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cool the rice completely before mixing it with the other ingredients to prevent it from becoming mushy.

- For added flavor, you can add fresh herbs such as dill or parsley to the salad.

- Feel free to customize the salad by adding other vegetables such as cherry tomatoes, carrots, or avocado.

Serving Suggestions

Cool Cucumber Rice Salad can be served as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish, or enjoyed on its own as a light lunch. It pairs well with a glass of iced tea or a crisp white wine.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making a successful Cool Cucumber Rice Salad is to cook the rice properly and allow it to cool completely before mixing it with the other ingredients. Be sure to toss the salad gently to avoid crushing the vegetables.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have Italian salad dressing on hand, you can make your own by combining olive oil, vinegar, and herbs such as oregano and basil. You can also use a vinaigrette or lemon dressing as a substitute.

Make Ahead Tips

Cool Cucumber Rice Salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just be sure to toss it again before serving to redistribute the dressing.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Cool Cucumber Rice Salad on a bed of lettuce leaves for a beautiful presentation. You can also garnish it with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika for added color.

Pairing Recommendations

This salad pairs well with grilled meats, seafood, or tofu. It also goes well with a variety of side dishes such as grilled vegetables, corn on the cob, or a fresh green salad.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Cool Cucumber Rice Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply let it come to room temperature or enjoy it cold.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 200 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 35g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 5g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 2g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This salad is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains soy in the Italian salad dressing.

Summary

Cool Cucumber Rice Salad is a light and healthy dish that is low in calories and fat. It is a good source of carbohydrates and vitamins, making it a nutritious option for a meal or snack.

Summary

Cool Cucumber Rice Salad is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a light and refreshing meal. With its crunchy vegetables, tangy dressing, and fluffy rice, this salad is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

How did I get this recipe?

I distinctly remember the moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Cool Cucumber Rice Salad. It was a warm summer day, much like today, when I was visiting my dear friend Clara. Clara was a talented cook and always had the most delicious recipes up her sleeve.

As soon as I walked into her kitchen, I was hit with the refreshing aroma of cucumbers and rice. Clara was busy chopping cucumbers and mixing them with rice, along with a variety of other ingredients. I asked her what she was making and she excitedly told me about this new recipe she had come across in a magazine.

I watched as she effortlessly tossed the ingredients together, her hands moving with practiced precision. She explained to me how the combination of the crisp cucumbers, fluffy rice, and tangy dressing created the perfect summer salad. I was mesmerized by her skill and couldn't wait to try the dish for myself.

After Clara had finished preparing the salad, she served us each a generous portion. The first bite was a revelation - the coolness of the cucumbers, the creaminess of the rice, and the zing of the dressing all came together in a symphony of flavors. I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make this salad myself.

Clara kindly shared the recipe with me, along with some tips and tricks to ensure that it turned out just right. I went home that day with a new sense of purpose, eager to recreate the delicious salad that had left such a lasting impression on me.

I spent the next few days practicing the recipe, tweaking it here and there until I had perfected it to my liking. I made the salad for my family and friends, who all raved about how refreshing and flavorful it was. It quickly became a staple at our summer gatherings, a dish that everyone looked forward to.

Over the years, I have continued to make the Cool Cucumber Rice Salad, each time adding my own personal touch to it. I have experimented with different types of rice, varying the dressing ingredients, and even adding in some fresh herbs from my garden. Each iteration has been met with praise and admiration from those who have had the pleasure of tasting it.

I have shared the recipe with countless people, passing on the tradition of this delicious salad to the next generation. It brings me joy to know that something as simple as a recipe can bring people together, creating memories and moments that will be cherished for years to come.

As I sit here, preparing the Cool Cucumber Rice Salad once again, I can't help but feel grateful for the serendipitous moment that led me to discover this wonderful recipe. It serves as a reminder of the power of good food and good friends, and the joy that comes from sharing both with the ones we love.

Categories

| American Recipes | American Salads | Cucumber Recipes | Cucumber Salad Recipes | Green Bell Pepper Recipes | Lettuce Recipes | Mustard Seed Recipes | Radish Recipes |

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