When the weather warms up and you’re craving a refreshing dish that’s bursting with flavor, look no further than this delightful Cold Curried Rice Salad recipe. Packed with vibrant colors and exotic spices, this salad is a perfect blend of sweet and savory that will elevate your lunch or dinner table. It’s an ideal dish for picnics, potlucks, or simply as a light meal on a sunny day. Let’s dive into creating this easy and aromatic salad that will transport your taste buds with every bite.
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups cooked basmati rice, cooled
– 1 cup diced cucumber
– 1 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1 cup diced carrots
– 1/2 cup raisins
– 1/2 cup slivered almonds
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 1/3 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 2 teaspoons curry powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and cooled basmati rice with the diced cucumber, red bell pepper, carrots, raisins, slivered almonds, chopped cilantro, and green onions. Mix everything together gently to distribute the ingredients evenly.
2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, curry powder, salt, and pepper until well combined and smooth.
3. Pour the creamy curry dressing over the rice and vegetable mixture. Use a spatula to gently fold the dressing into the salad, ensuring that everything is well-coated with the flavorful dressing.
4. Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or curry powder according to your preference.
5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the Cold Curried Rice Salad for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld together and chill.
6. When ready to serve, give the salad a final stir to refresh the flavors. You can garnish the top with some additional chopped cilantro or a sprinkle of slivered almonds for an extra visual touch.
7. Serve the Cold Curried Rice Salad chilled as a side dish or as a light meal. This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or even as a standalone vegetarian option. Enjoy the burst of textures and flavors with every forkful.
This Cold Curried Rice Salad is a versatile and unique addition to your recipe collection. It’s a dish that will impress your guests with its exotic flair and delightful taste. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply looking to spice up your weekday meals, this salad is sure to be a hit. Try it out and let the aromatic blend of curry and fresh ingredients transport you to a culinary paradise.
