Hawaiian-style Rice Salad

Introduction

History

This recipe is inspired by the flavors of Hawaiian cuisine, which often incorporates tropical fruits, spices, and fresh ingredients. The combination of ham, rice, and peaches creates a unique and flavorful dish that is sure to impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Variations

Cooking Tips & Tricks

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

- Toasting the sliced almonds before adding them to the salad will enhance their flavor and add a nice crunch.

- Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite fruits or vegetables, such as pineapple, bell peppers, or cucumbers.

Serving Suggestions

This salad can be served on a bed of salad greens for a light and refreshing meal. It also pairs well with grilled chicken or fish for a complete and satisfying dinner.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cook the rice until it is tender but not mushy.

- Drain the peaches well to prevent the salad from becoming too watery.

- Toss the salad gently to combine all the ingredients without crushing the rice.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter option.

- Substitute quinoa or couscous for the rice for a different texture.

- Swap out the chutney for mango or peach salsa for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

This salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just be sure to add the almonds right before serving to keep them crunchy.

Presentation Ideas

Serve this salad in a large bowl or on a platter garnished with fresh herbs or edible flowers for a beautiful presentation. You can also sprinkle some extra curry powder on top for a pop of color and flavor.

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 tropical fruit punch or 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, or enjoy it cold straight from the fridge.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Hawaiian-style Rice Salad contains approximately 350 calories. This makes it a satisfying and filling dish that is perfect for a light meal or side dish.

Carbohydrates

This Hawaiian-style Rice Salad is a good source of carbohydrates, with approximately 30 grams per serving. Carbohydrates are an important source of energy for the body and can help fuel your day.

Fats

This salad contains healthy fats from the almonds, sour cream, and mayonnaise. These fats are essential for overall health and can help support brain function, hormone production, and nutrient absorption.

Proteins

The ham in this salad provides a good amount of protein, with approximately 15 grams per serving. Protein is important for muscle growth and repair, as well as for keeping you feeling full and satisfied.

Vitamins and minerals

This salad is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C from the peaches and celery, and vitamin A from the ham. These nutrients are important for supporting a healthy immune system and overall well-being.

Alergens

This recipe contains almonds, which are a common allergen. If you or your guests have nut allergies, be sure to omit the almonds or substitute them with a different ingredient.

Summary

Overall, Hawaiian-style Rice Salad is a nutritious and delicious dish that is perfect for any occasion. It is a good source of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals, making it a well-rounded and balanced meal option.

Summary

Hawaiian-style Rice Salad is a flavorful and satisfying dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its combination of ham, rice, peaches, and curry powder, this salad is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation. Enjoy it as a light lunch, side dish, or main course, and impress your family and friends with this delicious and nutritious recipe.

How did I get this recipe?

I distinctly remember the moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Hawaiian-style Rice Salad. It was a beautiful summer day, the sun was shining, and I had just finished browsing through a stack of old cookbooks at a flea market. As I was flipping through the pages of a weathered recipe book, a faded postcard fell out and fluttered to the ground. Curious, I picked it up and saw that it was a picture of a tropical paradise with the words "Aloha from Hawaii" written across the top.

Intrigued, I turned the postcard over and saw a handwritten recipe for Hawaiian-style Rice Salad. The ingredients were a mix of exotic fruits, vegetables, and spices that I had never used before. Pineapple, mango, red bell pepper, cilantro, and a hint of ginger - it sounded like a refreshing and flavorful combination that I knew I had to try.

I tucked the postcard into my recipe book and made my way home, eager to recreate this Hawaiian-inspired dish. As I gathered the ingredients and began chopping and mixing, memories flooded back to me of my travels to Hawaii many years ago. I remembered the warm breeze, the sound of the ocean, and the delicious meals I had enjoyed during my time on the islands.

I thought back to a particular meal I had at a small family-owned restaurant in Maui. The owner, a kind elderly woman named Kailani, had shared with me her recipe for a traditional Hawaiian rice salad. She explained how the locals often made this dish for family gatherings and special occasions, using fresh ingredients sourced from their own gardens.

As I followed the recipe from the postcard, I couldn't help but add my own twist to it, incorporating some of the techniques and flavors I had learned from Kailani. I sautéed the red bell pepper and ginger in a skillet until they were fragrant, then tossed them with the cooked rice and diced pineapple and mango. I added a generous amount of chopped cilantro and a splash of lime juice for a burst of freshness.

The salad came together beautifully, the vibrant colors and tropical aromas reminding me of the sun-kissed beaches of Hawaii. I took a bite and was instantly transported back to that little restaurant in Maui, savoring each mouthful as if it were a piece of paradise on my plate.

I shared the Hawaiian-style Rice Salad with my family that evening, and it was a hit. My grandchildren, who had never tasted anything quite like it before, devoured their portions and asked for seconds. They begged me to make it again soon, and I promised that I would.

Since that day, Hawaiian-style Rice Salad has become a staple in our family gatherings. I've made it for birthdays, holidays, and even just as a special treat on a lazy Sunday afternoon. Each time I prepare it, I think of Kailani and the warm memories of Hawaii that inspired this dish.

As I sit here now, writing down this story and recipe for future generations to enjoy, I can't help but feel grateful for the serendipitous moment that led me to discover Hawaiian-style Rice Salad. It's more than just a dish - it's a connection to a place and a people that hold a special corner of my heart. And for that, I am forever thankful.

Categories

| Almond Recipes | American Recipes | American Salads | Curry Recipes | Ham Recipes | Mayonnaise Recipes | Peach Recipes | Rice Recipes | Salad Recipes |

Recipes with the same ingredients