Rice 'n Pear Salad

Rice 'n Pear Salad Recipe - Delicious and Nutritious

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 0 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Rice 'n Pear Salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of pears with the nuttiness of brown rice. This salad is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for a summer barbecue.

History

The combination of rice and fruit in salads has been a popular dish in many cultures for centuries. The addition of pears to this salad adds a unique twist and provides a burst of sweetness to the dish.

Ingredients

2 cups of cooked brown rice, cooled to room temperature
2 fresh pears, cored and diced
1 cup of shredded monterey jack cheese
1 cup of shredded carrots
3 tbsp of vegetable oil
2 tbsp of lime juice
1 tbsp of chopped fresh parsley
0.5 tsp of salt
0.5 tsp of ground white pepper

How to prepare

In a large mixing bowl, combine rice, pears, cheese, and carrots.
To prepare the dressing, combine oil, lime juice, parsley, salt, and pepper; pour over the rice mixture and toss lightly.
Chill the mixture until it is ready to be served.

Variations

Add in some toasted nuts or seeds for added crunch.
Swap out the pears for apples or grapes for a different flavor profile.
Use quinoa or couscous instead of brown rice for a different texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cool the rice to room temperature before mixing it with the other ingredients to prevent the cheese from melting.

- Use ripe pears for the best flavor and texture in the salad.

- Feel free to add in other ingredients such as nuts or dried fruits for added texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This salad can be served on its own as a light lunch or as a side dish for grilled chicken or fish. It also pairs well with a simple vinaigrette dressing.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making this salad is to ensure that the rice is cooled to room temperature before mixing it with the other ingredients. This will prevent the cheese from melting and clumping together.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have pears on hand, you can use apples or grapes instead. You can also swap out the cheese for a dairy-free alternative or omit it altogether.

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 give it a good stir before serving to redistribute the dressing.

Presentation Ideas

Serve this salad in a large bowl or on a platter garnished with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of cheese. You can also add a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an extra touch of flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

This Rice 'n Pear Salad pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or tofu. It also goes well with a glass of white wine or a fruity iced tea.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of this 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

Each serving of this Rice 'n Pear Salad contains approximately 250 calories, making it a light and healthy option for a meal or side dish.

Carbohydrates

This salad is a great source of carbohydrates, with the brown rice and pears providing a healthy dose of complex carbs to keep you feeling full and satisfied.

Fats

The vegetable oil and cheese in this salad provide a moderate amount of healthy fats, which are essential for overall health and wellbeing.

Proteins

While this salad is not a significant source of protein, the cheese does provide a small amount of this essential nutrient.

Vitamins and minerals

Pears are a great source of vitamin C and fiber, while the carrots in this salad provide a healthy dose of vitamin A. The parsley also adds a boost of vitamin K.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy from the cheese, so it may not be suitable for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.

Summary

Overall, this Rice 'n Pear Salad is a nutritious and delicious dish that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Rice 'n Pear Salad is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a light lunch or side dish. With a balance of carbohydrates, fats, and vitamins and minerals, this salad is sure to be a hit at your next meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a cherished one. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret in her quaint little cottage by the sea. Margaret was a fantastic cook, and she always had the most delicious recipes up her sleeve.

On that particular day, Margaret greeted me with a smile and a twinkle in her eye. She led me to her kitchen, where the most heavenly aroma wafted through the air. I could see pots and pans bubbling away on the stove, and fresh ingredients scattered across the countertops.

"Come, my dear," Margaret said, motioning for me to join her at the kitchen table. "I have a special recipe to share with you today."

I eagerly sat down, my stomach already rumbling with anticipation. Margaret began to chop up ripe pears, their sweet scent filling the room. She then cooked a pot of fluffy white rice, its grains glistening in the sunlight streaming through the window.

As she mixed the two together in a large bowl, Margaret explained the origins of the recipe. She had learned it from her own grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations. It was a simple yet elegant dish, perfect for any occasion.

Once the rice and pears were combined, Margaret added a splash of balsamic vinegar, a sprinkle of fresh herbs, and a handful of toasted almonds for crunch. She then gently tossed everything together, the flavors melding harmoniously.

As I took my first bite of the Rice 'n Pear Salad, I was transported to a place of pure bliss. The sweetness of the pears paired perfectly with the nuttiness of the almonds, while the balsamic vinegar added a tangy kick. It was a symphony of flavors in every bite.

From that moment on, the Rice 'n Pear Salad became a staple in my own kitchen. I made it for family gatherings, potlucks, and even just for myself on lazy Sunday afternoons. Each time I prepared it, I would think back to that wonderful day with Margaret and smile.

Over the years, I have tweaked the recipe to make it my own. I have added dried cranberries for a pop of color, swapped out the almonds for walnuts, and even experimented with different types of rice. But no matter how I change it, the essence of the dish remains the same.

Now, as I sit in my own kitchen, preparing the Rice 'n Pear Salad once again, I can't help but feel grateful for all the wonderful recipes I have collected over the years. Each one tells a story, whether it be of a dear friend, a cherished memory, or a special occasion.

And as I take a bite of the salad, savoring the familiar flavors, I am reminded of Margaret and the day she introduced me to this delightful dish. It may just be a recipe, but to me, it is so much more than that. It is a connection to the past, a link to the present, and a promise of many more delicious meals to come.