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Rice Salad with Peanut Lime Dressing

Rice Salad with Peanut Lime Dressing
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A refreshing and easy-to-make Rice Salad with Peanut Lime Dressing combining fluffy long-grain rice, crisp vegetables, and a tangy, nutty dressing. Perfect as a light lunch, side dish, or a versatile main course by adding protein. This vibrant salad is nutritious, flavorful, and customizable to suit various dietary needs.

Ingredients

Scale

Rice Base

  • 1 cup long-grain rice

Fresh Vegetables

  • Bell peppers, chopped (quantity to preference, about 1 cup)
  • Shredded carrots (about 1 cup)
  • Chopped cucumbers (about 1 cup)
  • Green onions, thinly sliced (2-3 stalks)
  • Fresh cilantro or herbs, roughly chopped (1/4 cup)

Peanut Lime Dressing

  • 3 tablespoons peanut butter
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • Warm water, as needed to thin dressing

Garnishes (Optional)

  • Toasted peanuts, chopped
  • Extra chopped cilantro
  • Lime wedges for serving

Instructions

  1. Cook the Rice: Rinse 1 cup of long-grain rice under cold water until clear. Cook the rice according to package instructions. Once cooked, fluff with a fork and allow it to cool to room temperature to prevent sogginess in the salad.
  2. Prepare the Vegetables: While the rice cools, chop bell peppers, cucumbers, and carrots into bite-sized pieces. Thinly slice green onions and roughly chop fresh cilantro or your choice of fresh herbs for added flavor and color.
  3. Make the Peanut Lime Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons peanut butter, 2 tablespoons lime juice, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger, 1 minced garlic clove, and 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup. Gradually add warm water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dressing is smooth and pourable.
  4. Toss the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooled rice and chopped vegetables. Pour the peanut lime dressing over the salad and toss gently but thoroughly, making sure all ingredients are evenly coated.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle toasted peanuts and extra chopped cilantro over the salad for added texture and freshness. Serve immediately or chill slightly to let the flavors blend together.

Notes

  • Use room temperature rice to keep the salad from becoming watery or gummy.
  • Toast peanuts yourself to enhance flavor and crunch.
  • Adjust the lime juice amount to your taste preference for acidity.
  • The peanut lime dressing stores well in the refrigerator for up to one week.
  • For creamier texture, add diced avocado or fresh herbs like mint.

Nutrition

Keywords: rice salad, peanut lime dressing, healthy salad, gluten free salad, vegan salad, easy lunch recipe, Asian-inspired salad

Find it online: https://marybaking.com/rice-salad-with-peanut-lime-dressing/