Tutti Fruitti Rice Salad

Tutti Fruitti Rice Salad Recipe - A Flavorful Delight from USA

Region / culture: USA | Servings: 4

Introduction

Tutti Fruitti Rice Salad is a delightful and refreshing dish that combines the nutty flavor of brown rice with the sweetness of dried cranberries and mango. This colorful salad is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for a summer barbecue.

History

The origins of Tutti Fruitti Rice Salad are not well-documented, but it is believed to have been inspired by traditional fruit and nut salads popular in Mediterranean cuisine. The addition of brown rice adds a hearty and nutritious twist to this classic dish.

Ingredients

3 cups of cooked brown rice
0.75 cups of dried cranberries
1 mango, chopped
0.75 cups of chopped pecans, toasted*
0.75 tsp of ground black pepper
0.5 cups of raspberry vinaigrette dressing
0.25 cups plus 2 tbsp of fresh chopped parsley, divided

How to prepare

In a large bowl, combine rice, cranberries, mango, pecans, pepper, vinaigrette, and 0.25 cup of parsley.
Toss well and garnish with the remaining parsley.

Variations

Substitute dried cranberries with raisins or chopped apricots.
Use walnuts or almonds instead of pecans for a different flavor profile.
Add a sprinkle of feta cheese or goat cheese for a creamy and tangy twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to toast the pecans before adding them to the salad to enhance their flavor.

- Use a vinaigrette dressing with a good balance of acidity and sweetness to complement the fruit and nut flavors.

- For added crunch, you can also add some chopped celery or bell peppers to the salad.

Serving Suggestions

Tutti Fruitti Rice Salad can be served as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish, or enjoyed on its own as a light and refreshing meal. It is also a great option for picnics or potlucks.

Cooking Techniques

To toast pecans, spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 5-7 minutes, or until fragrant.

- Cook brown rice according to package instructions, or use leftover rice for a quick and easy meal.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use white rice or quinoa instead of brown rice.

- Swap mango for pineapple or papaya for a tropical twist.

- Any type of vinaigrette dressing can be used in place of the suggested dressing.

Make Ahead Tips

Tutti Fruitti Rice Salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just be sure to toss the salad well before serving to redistribute the flavors.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Tutti Fruitti Rice Salad in a large bowl or on a platter garnished with fresh parsley for a colorful and appetizing presentation. You can also sprinkle some additional chopped nuts on top for added texture.

Pairing Recommendations

This salad pairs well with grilled meats, seafood, or tofu. For a complete meal, serve it with a side of steamed vegetables or a green salad.

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 or enjoy it cold as a refreshing dish.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 250 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 38g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 9g per serving

Saturated Fat: 1g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 4g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin C: 15% of daily value per serving

Iron: 6% of daily value per serving

Alergens

Contains nuts (pecans)

Summary

Tutti Fruitti Rice Salad is a nutritious dish that is rich in carbohydrates, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. It is a great option for those looking for a flavorful and satisfying meal.

Summary

Tutti Fruitti Rice Salad is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its combination of sweet and savory flavors, this salad is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy it as a light lunch or as a side dish at your next gathering.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the excitement that washed over me when I first saw this recipe for Tutti Fruitti Rice Salad. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend, Mrs. Jenkins. She was known in our small town for her delicious and innovative recipes, and I always looked forward to trying something new whenever I visited her.

On this particular day, as we sat in her cozy kitchen sipping on iced tea, Mrs. Jenkins pulled out a well-worn recipe book and flipped through the pages with a smile on her face. "I have a treat for you today, my dear," she said as she handed me the recipe for Tutti Fruitti Rice Salad. I couldn't contain my excitement as I read through the ingredients and instructions, imagining the burst of flavors and colors that would come together in this unique dish.

Mrs. Jenkins explained that she had learned this recipe from a dear friend of hers who had traveled to exotic lands and brought back a treasure trove of culinary delights. The combination of rice, tropical fruits, and a tangy dressing was unlike anything I had ever seen before, and I knew I had to learn how to make it myself.

As Mrs. Jenkins guided me through the process of preparing the salad, I listened intently, taking mental notes of each step and ingredient. She emphasized the importance of using fresh and ripe fruits, as their sweetness would balance out the savory flavors of the rice and dressing. She also shared tips on how to cook the rice perfectly, ensuring that each grain would be fluffy and flavorful.

After a few hours of chopping, mixing, and tasting, the Tutti Fruitti Rice Salad was finally ready to be served. The vibrant colors of the fruits and vegetables glistened in the sunlight, and the aroma of the dressing filled the air with a tantalizing scent. Mrs. Jenkins and I sat down at her kitchen table and took our first bite, savoring the explosion of flavors on our taste buds.

From that moment on, Tutti Fruitti Rice Salad became a staple in my own recipe collection. I made it for family gatherings, potlucks, and even just for a quiet dinner at home. Each time I prepared it, I thought back to that warm summer day in Mrs. Jenkins' kitchen, where my love for cooking and experimenting with new flavors was sparked.

Over the years, I have added my own twists and variations to the recipe, incorporating different fruits, nuts, and herbs to create new and exciting flavor combinations. But no matter how many times I make it, the memories of learning to make Tutti Fruitti Rice Salad with Mrs. Jenkins will always hold a special place in my heart.

As I pass on this recipe to my own grandchildren, I hope that they too will find joy and inspiration in the kitchen, just as I did all those years ago. And who knows, maybe one day they will create their own version of Tutti Fruitti Rice Salad, adding their own unique touch to this timeless and delicious dish.