Ham and Rice Salad

Ham and Rice Salad Recipe: A Delicious American Dish

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Ham and Rice Salad is a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for a light lunch or dinner. This salad combines the savory flavors of ham with the sweetness of mandarin oranges and the crunch of green onions, all tossed together with a tangy vinaigrette dressing. It is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on its own or as a side dish to complement a variety of main courses.

History

The origins of Ham and Rice Salad are not well-documented, but it is likely that this dish was created as a way to use up leftover ham in a fresh and flavorful way. The combination of ham, rice, and citrus fruits is a classic one that has been enjoyed by home cooks for generations.

Ingredients

1 package (5 oz or 142 g) of quick cooking chicken-flavored long-grain and wild rice mix, prepared
1 cup of cooked cubed ham
1 can (11 oz or 312 g) of mandarin oranges
0.5 cup of sliced green onions
0.5 cup of vinaigrette dressing
spinach leaves

How to prepare

In a large mixing bowl, combine rice, ham, oranges, and onions.
Drizzle the mixture with dressing and gently toss it.
Spoon the mixture onto individual plates lined with spinach leaves.

Variations

Add diced bell peppers or cherry tomatoes for extra color and flavor.
Substitute the ham with cooked chicken or turkey for a different twist.
Use a different type of rice, such as brown rice or quinoa, for a healthier option.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the rice according to the package instructions to ensure that it is tender and fluffy.

- For added flavor, you can toast the rice in a dry skillet before cooking it to enhance its nutty taste.

- Feel free to customize this salad with your favorite ingredients, such as nuts, dried fruits, or cheese.

Serving Suggestions

Ham and Rice Salad can be served as a light lunch or dinner on its own, or as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making a delicious Ham and Rice Salad is to cook the rice properly and to toss the ingredients gently to ensure that they are evenly coated with the dressing.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have ham on hand, you can substitute it with cooked chicken, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the rice and chop the ingredients ahead of time and assemble the salad just before serving to save time.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Ham and Rice Salad on a bed of fresh spinach leaves for a pop of color and added nutrition.

Pairing Recommendations

This salad pairs well with a crisp white wine or a refreshing iced tea.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply microwave the salad for a few minutes until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Ham and Rice Salad contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Ham and Rice Salad contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Ham and Rice Salad contains approximately 10 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Ham and Rice Salad contains approximately 15 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

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

Alergens

This recipe contains gluten from the rice and may contain soy in the vinaigrette dressing.

Summary

Ham and Rice Salad is a balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, along with essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Ham and Rice Salad is a flavorful and satisfying dish that is perfect for a light meal or side dish. With a mix of savory ham, sweet mandarin oranges, and tangy vinaigrette dressing, this salad is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is one that will always be special to me. It was during a chilly autumn afternoon when I stumbled upon a dusty old cookbook at a local thrift store. As I flipped through the pages, my eyes landed on a faded photo of a delicious looking ham and rice salad. Intrigued, I carefully copied down the recipe and decided to give it a try.

I had always enjoyed experimenting in the kitchen, and this recipe seemed like the perfect blend of flavors and textures. I gathered all the ingredients and set to work, following the instructions with precision and care. The aroma of the ham sizzling in the pan mixed with the scent of the rice cooking in the pot filled my cozy kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation.

As I mixed together the ham, rice, and vegetables, I couldn't help but think back to all the recipes I had learned over the years. From my own mother's secret meatloaf recipe to my best friend's famous chocolate chip cookies, each dish held a special place in my heart. And now, this ham and rice salad was about to become a new favorite.

The salad came together beautifully, with vibrant colors and a tantalizing blend of flavors. I took a small taste, savoring the combination of tender ham, fluffy rice, and crisp vegetables. It was like a symphony of tastes dancing on my tongue, a perfect harmony of savory and sweet.

I couldn't wait to share this new creation with my family and friends. I invited them over for a cozy dinner, serving the ham and rice salad as the star of the meal. Their eyes lit up as they took their first bite, their taste buds tingling with delight. They showered me with compliments and asked for the recipe, eager to recreate this dish in their own kitchens.

From that day on, the ham and rice salad became a staple in my repertoire. I would make it for special occasions, family gatherings, and impromptu dinner parties. Each time, it never failed to impress and delight.

Over the years, I added my own twist to the recipe, experimenting with different seasonings, herbs, and garnishes. Sometimes I would swap out the ham for chicken or shrimp, or add a touch of citrus for a burst of freshness. But no matter how I tweaked the recipe, the essence of the dish remained the same – a comforting, satisfying meal that brought people together around the table.

As I grew older, I began to pass down the recipe to the next generation. I taught my grandchildren how to make the ham and rice salad, sharing the story of how I discovered it and the memories it held for me. They watched me cook with wide-eyed wonder, eager to learn the secrets of my culinary creations.

And so, the tradition continued, with each new generation adding their own flair to the recipe. The ham and rice salad became a family heirloom, a treasured dish that symbolized love, togetherness, and the joy of sharing good food with good company.

Now, as I sit in my cozy kitchen, surrounded by the laughter and chatter of my loved ones, I can't help but smile as I watch them enjoy the ham and rice salad that has brought us all together. It's more than just a recipe – it's a legacy, a piece of my heart that I will pass on for generations to come. And for that, I am forever grateful.