Mixed Vegetable Salad I

Mixed Vegetable Salad Recipe | USA | Ingredients: rice, cheddar, onion, Dijon mustard, lemon juice

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Mixed Vegetable Salad is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for dinner. Packed with a variety of vegetables, cheese, and rice, this salad is both satisfying and healthy.

History

The origins of Mixed Vegetable Salad are not clear, but it is a popular dish in many cultures around the world. It is a versatile recipe that can be customized to suit individual tastes and preferences.

Ingredients

2 cups cooked rice
1 x 10 oz (283 g) package of frozen mixed vegetables, cooked and drained
1 cup (4 oz (113 g)) of diced cheddar cheese
0.25 cup finely chopped onion
1 tsp salt
1 tsp sugar
0.5 tsp dijon mustard
0.5 tsp seasoned pepper
3 tbsp vegetable oil
1 tbsp lemon juice

How to prepare

In a large mixing bowl, combine rice, mixed vegetables, cheese, and onion.
Beat or shake together salt, sugar, mustard, pepper, oil, and lemon juice.
Pour the mixture over the rice; toss lightly.

Variations

Add cooked chicken or shrimp for added protein.
Use different types of cheese such as feta or mozzarella for a different flavor.
Add fresh herbs such as parsley or basil for added freshness.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the rice and vegetables according to package instructions to ensure they are cooked properly.

- You can use fresh vegetables instead of frozen if you prefer.

- Feel free to add other ingredients such as nuts, seeds, or dried fruit to customize the salad to your liking.

Serving Suggestions

Mixed Vegetable Salad can be served as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish, or as a light lunch on its own. It pairs well with a variety of dishes and can be enjoyed hot or cold.

Cooking Techniques

The key cooking technique for this recipe is to cook the rice and vegetables according to package instructions and then combine them with the other ingredients in a large mixing bowl. Be sure to toss the salad lightly to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use different types of vegetables or cheese in this recipe to suit your preferences.

- If you don't have dijon mustard, you can use regular mustard or omit it altogether.

- Feel free to add other ingredients such as nuts, seeds, or dried fruit for added flavor and texture.

Make Ahead Tips

Mixed Vegetable Salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Be sure to store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Mixed Vegetable Salad in a large serving bowl or on individual plates for a beautiful presentation. Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of cheese for added flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Mixed Vegetable Salad pairs well with a variety of dishes such as grilled chicken, fish, or tofu. It also goes well with a side of crusty bread or a light soup.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Mixed Vegetable Salad 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 Mixed Vegetable Salad contains approximately 300 calories. This makes it a light and healthy option for a meal or side dish.

Carbohydrates

The main sources of carbohydrates in this recipe are the rice and vegetables. Carbohydrates are an important source of energy for the body and are essential for overall health.

Fats

The main source of fats in this recipe is the vegetable oil and cheese. Fats are important for overall health and provide essential nutrients for the body.

Proteins

The main source of protein in this recipe is the cheese. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body and is important for overall health.

Vitamins and minerals

This recipe is packed with vitamins and minerals from the vegetables, cheese, and other ingredients. These nutrients are essential for overall health and well-being.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy from the cheese, so it may not be suitable for those with dairy allergies. Be sure to check for any other allergens in the ingredients before preparing the dish.

Summary

Mixed Vegetable Salad is a nutritious and delicious dish that is packed with vitamins, minerals, and essential nutrients. It is a healthy option for a meal or side dish and can be customized to suit individual tastes and preferences.

Summary

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was captivated by its simplicity. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my friend Mary in her quaint little cottage by the sea. We had spent the morning picking fresh vegetables from her garden, and Mary suggested we make a mixed vegetable salad for lunch.

As we gathered the ingredients, Mary shared with me the story of how she learned to make this delicious salad. She told me that she had first tasted it at a small cafe in France many years ago, and she was instantly hooked. The chef had been kind enough to share the recipe with her, and she had been making it ever since.

I watched intently as Mary chopped the crisp cucumbers, vibrant bell peppers, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant herbs. She explained the importance of using the freshest ingredients possible, as it truly made a difference in the flavor of the salad. As she mixed everything together in a large bowl, I could already smell the enticing aroma of the herbs and vegetables coming together.

Once the salad was ready, Mary plated it beautifully and we sat down to enjoy our meal. The flavors burst in my mouth with each bite, and I knew that I had to learn how to make this salad myself. Mary graciously shared the recipe with me, and I made a mental note to try it out as soon as I got back home.

When I returned to my own kitchen, I gathered the ingredients and set to work. I carefully followed Mary's instructions, chopping the vegetables with precision and mixing them together with the herbs and a simple vinaigrette dressing. As I tasted the finished salad, I was transported back to that sunny day by the sea, enjoying the company of a dear friend and savoring the delicious flavors of this mixed vegetable salad.

Over the years, I have made this salad countless times for family and friends, always receiving rave reviews. It has become a staple in my repertoire of recipes, a dish that never fails to impress and delight. And every time I make it, I think of Mary and that summer day when I first learned to create this simple yet exquisite dish.

I am grateful for the opportunity to have learned this recipe, and for the memories it brings back each time I make it. It serves as a reminder of the power of food to bring people together, to create lasting connections and cherished moments. And I hope that one day, I can pass on this recipe to someone else, to share the joy and deliciousness of this mixed vegetable salad with a new generation of cooks.

In the end, it is not just a recipe for a salad, but a recipe for connection, for love, and for the simple pleasures of life. And for that, I am truly thankful.