If you are searching for a vibrant, refreshing dish that bursts with Mediterranean flavors and can be tossed together in just minutes, this Italian Rice Salad Recipe is an absolute winner. Packed with colorful vegetables, aromatic herbs, and a tangy, zingy dressing, this salad is the perfect way to enjoy rice in a light and bright new way. Whether you’re hosting a summer picnic or want a simple, wholesome meal, this Italian Rice Salad Recipe brings a fantastic blend of tastes and textures that will keep you coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet essential to delivering the fantastic flavor profile and texture of the Italian Rice Salad Recipe. Each item plays a key role, from the tender cooked rice providing a soft base to the crisp vegetables adding crunch and color.
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar: Adds a pleasant acidity that brightens the whole salad.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice: Gives a fresh, citrusy lift complementing the vinegar perfectly.
- 1 clove garlic, finely chopped: Brings a subtle punch of savoriness to the dressing.
- 3 tbsp olive oil: Offers richness and a silky texture that melds all flavors together.
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard: Adds a gentle tang and helps emulsify the dressing.
- 2 tsp dried oregano: Provides that quintessential Italian herb touch to tie the recipe together.
- Pinch of salt and black pepper: Enhances all the natural tastes perfectly.
- 250 g cooked rice, cold: The hearty base—using microwave rice works great for convenience.
- 200 g baby plum tomatoes, cut into quarters: Juicy sweetness and vibrant color that brighten the salad.
- 1 red onion, diced: Offers a mild sharpness and crunch that balances the rest of the ingredients.
- 100 g black olives, halved: Adds a briny, savory depth to the salad mix.
- 100 g cucumber, diced: Introduces a refreshing, crisp contrast to the textures.
- 200 g sweetcorn, cooked and cooled: Sweet bursts of flavor and pop of golden color.
- 20 g fresh basil, sliced: Aromatic herbaceous notes that elevate the entire dish.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: The final seasoning touch for perfect balance.
How to Make Italian Rice Salad Recipe
Step 1: Make the Dressing
Start by creating the zesty dressing that will tie all the salad ingredients together. In a small bowl, whisk together the red wine vinegar, lemon juice, finely chopped garlic, Dijon mustard, olive oil, dried oregano, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. This dressing is simple but packs a flavorful punch that brings vibrancy to the rice and vegetables. Set it aside for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 2: Combine the Salad Ingredients
In a large bowl, gather your cold cooked rice, juicy baby plum tomatoes, diced red onion, halved black olives, crisp cucumber, sweet corn, and fragrant fresh basil. It’s the colorful medley that makes this Italian Rice Salad Recipe so appealing visually and taste-wise. Pour the dressing over everything and toss gently but thoroughly so every grain of rice and piece of veggie is coated with that irresistible flavor.
Step 3: Serve It Up
Once dressed, transfer your Italian Rice Salad onto a beautiful serving platter or spoon it into bowls for an inviting presentation. Taste and add any extra salt and pepper if needed. The salad is ready to delight your taste buds and brighten any table.
How to Serve Italian Rice Salad Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra fresh basil leaves or a few shavings of Parmesan cheese can enhance the salad’s flavor and add an elegant touch. Toasted pine nuts also bring a lovely crunch that complements the creamy rice and crisp vegetables.
Side Dishes
This Italian Rice Salad Recipe pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, seafood, or a simple prosciutto and melon plate. It’s a fantastic side for barbecues, picnics, or as a light lunch on its own.
Creative Ways to Present
Try layering the salad in clear glass jars or serving it in hollowed-out bell peppers for a charming and unique presentation. It also makes a great filling for pita pockets for a handheld meal packed with flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Italian Rice Salad Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep it chilled, and you might want to add a little extra fresh basil or a dash more dressing just before serving to revive the flavors.
Freezing
Because of the fresh vegetables and dressing, freezing this salad is not recommended as it may alter the texture and freshness of the ingredients.
Reheating
This salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature to appreciate the fresh ingredients and crisp textures. If preferred, you can allow it to sit out for 15 minutes before serving after refrigeration.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice offers a nuttier flavor and chewier texture, which works well in this salad, making it a heartier option.
Is it possible to make this salad vegan?
Yes, the Italian Rice Salad Recipe is naturally vegan as it contains no animal products. Just be sure any garnish you add, like cheese, is substituted or omitted.
What can I substitute for black olives?
If you’re not a fan of black olives, green olives or capers can add the same salty, briny notes that enhance the salad beautifully.
Can I prepare this salad in advance for a party?
Definitely! Prepare the dressing and chop vegetables ahead of time. Toss everything together just before serving to keep the salad fresh and vibrant.
How spicy is this Italian Rice Salad Recipe?
This salad has no added heat and is very mild, making it suitable for all palates. You can add a pinch of chili flakes if you want a subtle kick.
Final Thoughts
This Italian Rice Salad Recipe is such a delightful, fuss-free dish that brings Mediterranean sunshine to your table with minimal effort. Whether you’re craving a healthy lunch or a stunning side for your next gathering, this salad is bound to become a favorite go-to. Don’t hesitate to try it out and share the joy of bright flavors and fresh ingredients with friends and family!
Print
Italian Rice Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This vibrant Italian Rice Salad is a refreshing and easy no-cook dish packed with fresh vegetables, black olives, and fragrant basil, tossed in a zesty red wine vinegar and lemon dressing. Perfect for a quick lunch, light dinner, or a summer picnic, it combines cooked rice with crisp cucumbers, sweetcorn, and juicy baby plum tomatoes for a flavorful, colorful meal that is ready in just 10 minutes.
Ingredients
Dressing
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, finely chopped
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dijon mustard
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- Pinch of salt and black pepper
Salad
- 250 g cooked rice, cold (preferably microwave rice)
- 200 g baby plum tomatoes, cut into quarters
- 1 red onion, diced
- 100 g black olives, halved
- 100 g cucumber, diced
- 200 g sweetcorn, cooked and cooled
- 20 g fresh basil, sliced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, combine red wine vinegar, lemon juice, finely chopped garlic, dijon mustard, olive oil, dried oregano, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Whisk everything together thoroughly to emulsify the dressing, then set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
- Prepare the salad ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cold cooked rice, quartered baby plum tomatoes, diced red onion, halved black olives, diced cucumber, cooled sweetcorn, and sliced fresh basil. Ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Toss salad with dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the rice and vegetable mixture. Use salad tongs or two large spoons to gently toss everything together, ensuring that the dressing coats all the ingredients evenly.
- Adjust seasoning and serve: Taste the salad and add additional salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. Transfer the salad to a serving platter or individual bowls, ready to be enjoyed immediately or chilled before serving.
Notes
- This salad is best served chilled or at room temperature.
- You can prepare the dressing a few hours in advance to enhance the flavor.
- Substitute black olives with green olives for a different taste.
- Use leftover cooked rice or microwave rice packs for convenience.
- Add some protein such as grilled chicken or chickpeas for a more substantial meal.
