This cold rice salad combines the vibrant flavors of roasted peppers, zucchini, and other seasonal vegetables with herb-infused rice, creating a delightful dish that’s perfect for summer gatherings or as a colorful side.
Ingredients
- 4 cups water
- 2 cups uncooked white rice
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
- 1 teaspoon herb salt
- 1 tablespoon chopped capers
- 1 sprig fresh parsley, chopped
- ½ lemon, zested
- 3 zucchinis, peeled and grated
- 2 carrots, peeled and grated
- ½ yellow bell pepper, cut into cubes
- ½ red bell pepper, cut into cubes
- 1 lemon, juiced
- salt to taste
Directions
- Boil water and rice in a saucepan. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer until tender, about 18-20 minutes.
- Remove from heat, cool rice with cold water, drain well, and transfer to a bowl.
- Stir in 1 tablespoon olive oil, herb salt, capers, parsley, and lemon zest.
- Combine grated zucchinis, carrots, and bell peppers with lemon juice and remaining olive oil.
- Season with salt, mix with rice mixture, and serve.
Cook’s Note
You can easily make herb salt by grinding sea salt with fresh herbs like basil, sage, mint, thyme, or rosemary.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
455 | Calories |
8g | Fat |
88g | Carbs |
10g | Protein |
Roasted Pepper and Courgette Salad Recipe
Enjoy the flavors of the cold rice with this warm roasted vegetable salad, perfect alongside grilled meats or as part of a vegetarian spread. Roasted peppers, zucchinis, and a hint of garlic create a healthy and delicious dish.
Ingredients
- 2 red peppers, deseeded and cut into wedges
- 1 yellow pepper, deseeded and cut into wedges
- 1 orange pepper, deseeded and cut into wedges
- 2 red onions, cut into wedges
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- 1 garlic clove, crushed
- ½ lemon, zested
- 2 courgettes, sliced into rounds
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 2 tbsp pine nuts
Method
- Preheat oven and roast peppers and onions with olive oil, oregano, and garlic until tender.
- Add courgettes, lemon zest, and vinegar; roast until all vegetables are caramelized.
- Sprinkle with pine nuts, serve warm or at room temperature.
These recipes celebrate the fresh, robust flavors of seasonal vegetables, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you prefer the comforting warmth of roasted peppers and zucchinis or the vibrant colors of cold rice salad, these dishes are sure to delight.