This amazing brown rice salad is packed with nutritious ingredients and bursting with flavors. It's a perfect dish for lunch, dinner, or potlucks. The combination of crunchy vegetables, tender brown rice, and tangy dressing creates a refreshing and satisfying salad that everyone will love. Plus, it's easy to prepare and can be customized with your favorite toppings. Give this hearty salad a try, and elevate your salad game to a whole new level!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked brown rice
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
- For the dressing:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked brown rice, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, bell pepper, parsley, black olives, feta cheese, and sunflower seeds.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the rice and vegetable mixture, and toss gently to coat all ingredients.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
- Let the salad sit for at least 10 minutes to allow flavors to blend.
- Serve in a salad bowl or on individual plates.
- Garnish with additional parsley and sunflower seeds, if desired.
- Enjoy this amazing brown rice salad as a standalone meal or as a side dish with grilled chicken, fish, or tofu.
Interesting Facts
Brown rice is a whole grain rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it a healthier choice compared to white rice.
Cherry tomatoes are a good source of antioxidants and vitamin C.
Cucumbers are hydrating and contain beneficial nutrients like vitamin K and potassium.
Red onions add a mild and sweet flavor to the salad, along with a dose of antioxidants.
Feta cheese provides a tangy kick and adds protein and calcium to the dish.
Sunflower seeds are a great source of healthy fats and vitamin E.