Italian Asparagus Rice Salad

Italian Asparagus Rice Salad Recipe - Authentic Flavors from Italy

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Italian Asparagus Rice Salad is a delicious and nutritious dish that combines the flavors of asparagus, chicken, and rice with a tangy salad dressing. This recipe is perfect for a light and refreshing meal that is easy to prepare.

History

Italian Asparagus Rice Salad is a modern twist on traditional Italian cuisine. It combines the classic flavors of Italian ingredients with a healthy and fresh twist. This recipe is a great way to enjoy the flavors of Italy in a light and satisfying dish.

Ingredients

0.25 cup parmesan cheese
0.25 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, halved and thinly sliced
1 tbsp olive oil
6 cups torn spinach leaves
3 cups cooked rice (cooked in chicken broth), cooled
1 lb (454 g) asparagus pieces, blanched and cut into 1 inch pieces
2 plum tomatoes, sliced
0.5 cup sliced red onion
0.33 cup walnuts, toasted
2 tbsp chopped fresh basil
0.67 cup prepared vinaigrette salad dressing

How to prepare

In a medium bowl, combine cheese and breadcrumbs.
Coat each chicken breast with the breadcrumb mixture.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until hot.
Add the chicken and cook for about 5 minutes until browned.
Remove the chicken and place it in a large bowl.
Add spinach, rice, asparagus, tomatoes, onion, walnuts, and basil to the bowl; toss well.
Just before serving, pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.

Variations

Add cooked shrimp or tofu for a vegetarian option.
Substitute quinoa or couscous for the rice for a different texture.
Add roasted red peppers or artichoke hearts for additional flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to blanch the asparagus before adding it to the salad to ensure that it is tender and flavorful.

- Toasting the walnuts before adding them to the salad will enhance their nutty flavor.

- Toss the salad with the dressing just before serving to ensure that it stays fresh and crisp.

Serving Suggestions

Italian Asparagus Rice Salad can be served as a main dish or as a side dish. It pairs well with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Blanch the asparagus to ensure that it is tender and flavorful.

- Toast the walnuts to enhance their nutty flavor.

- Toss the salad with the dressing just before serving to keep it fresh and crisp.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use any type of cheese in place of parmesan cheese.

- Substitute almonds or pecans for the walnuts.

- Use any type of salad dressing in place of the prepared dressing.

Make Ahead Tips

Italian Asparagus Rice Salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just add the dressing right before serving to keep it fresh and crisp.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Italian Asparagus Rice Salad in a large bowl or on individual plates. Garnish with fresh basil leaves or additional parmesan cheese for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Italian Asparagus Rice Salad pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. It also pairs well with a light beer or sparkling water.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Italian Asparagus Rice Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

This recipe contains approximately 400 calories per serving. It is a light and satisfying meal that is perfect for a healthy and balanced diet.

Carbohydrates

This recipe is a good source of carbohydrates, with approximately 30 grams per serving. Carbohydrates are an important source of energy for the body and are essential for overall health.

Fats

Italian Asparagus Rice Salad is a moderate source of fats, with approximately 15 grams per serving. Fats are important for overall health and provide essential nutrients for the body.

Proteins

This recipe is a good source of protein, with approximately 25 grams per serving. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body and is important for overall health.

Vitamins and minerals

Italian Asparagus Rice Salad is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, and iron. These nutrients are important for overall health and well-being.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (parmesan cheese) and nuts (walnuts). It may not be suitable for those with dairy or nut allergies.

Summary

Italian Asparagus Rice Salad is a nutritious and delicious dish that is rich in carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. It is a well-rounded meal that is perfect for a healthy and balanced diet.

Summary

Italian Asparagus Rice Salad is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a light and refreshing meal. With a combination of asparagus, chicken, rice, and a tangy salad dressing, this recipe is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is still fresh in my mind. It was a warm summer day, just like today, when I stumbled upon a quaint little Italian restaurant tucked away in a bustling corner of the city. The aroma of garlic and basil wafted through the air, drawing me in like a moth to a flame.

As I settled into my seat at a cozy table by the window, I couldn't help but admire the vibrant green asparagus spears that adorned the walls. They glistened in the sunlight, beckoning me to taste their deliciousness. When the waiter came to take my order, I couldn't resist asking about the asparagus.

"It's our famous Italian Asparagus Rice Salad," he said with a smile. "Would you like to try it?"

Without hesitation, I placed my order and eagerly awaited the arrival of this mysterious dish. When it finally came, I was blown away by the vibrant colors and fresh aromas that danced before me. The tender asparagus was perfectly cooked, the rice was fluffy and fragrant, and the dressing was a symphony of flavors that sang on my taste buds.

I savored each bite, letting the flavors linger on my tongue as I tried to decipher the secrets of this delectable dish. How did they make the rice so light and fluffy? What was the secret behind the tangy dressing that tied everything together so perfectly? I knew I had to uncover the mysteries of this recipe and make it my own.

After finishing my meal, I mustered up the courage to ask the chef for the recipe. To my surprise, he was more than happy to share his secrets with me. He took me back to the bustling kitchen, where pots bubbled and pans sizzled with the sounds of culinary magic.

As he walked me through the recipe, I watched in awe as he effortlessly combined the simplest of ingredients to create a masterpiece that would delight any palate. The key, he explained, was to use only the freshest and highest quality ingredients, letting their natural flavors shine through.

I scribbled down every word he said, every measurement and every technique, determined to recreate this dish in my own kitchen. And so, armed with this newfound knowledge, I set out on a culinary adventure that would forever change the way I cooked.

Back at home, I gathered the freshest asparagus I could find, along with fragrant herbs, juicy tomatoes, and creamy Parmesan cheese. I cooked the rice just as the chef had instructed, letting it absorb all the flavors of the broth and herbs. I whisked together a tangy dressing of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and Dijon mustard, letting it emulsify into a silky smooth sauce.

Finally, I combined all the ingredients in a large bowl, tossing them gently to coat each morsel with the luscious dressing. The colors of the salad were a feast for the eyes, the flavors a symphony for the taste buds. As I took my first bite, I closed my eyes and let out a sigh of contentment. I had done it. I had unlocked the secrets of the Italian Asparagus Rice Salad.

From that day on, this recipe became a staple in my repertoire, a go-to dish for family gatherings and special occasions. I shared it with friends and loved ones, passing on the tradition of delicious Italian cooking to the next generation. And as I look back on that fateful day in the little Italian restaurant, I am grateful for the serendipitous encounter that led me to discover this culinary gem.

So, the next time you find yourself craving a taste of Italy, why not try your hand at making my Italian Asparagus Rice Salad? I promise you won't be disappointed. Buon appetito!