So what is Insalata di Riso? Well, it translates to pretty much what it looks like, Rice Salad. It’s an Italian Dish that is eaten through the summer for a light meal. But I’ve discovered it’s great all year round, especially when you want something delicious and easy to make. It’s also great as a leftover makeover and a fridge cleaner. I love using this recipe as a way to use up leftover rice that I might not have enough of for a whole meal on its own, or I want to elevate it, or both.
As I mentioned it’s great for cleaning out the fridge too. Most of the individual items you only need a little of and not any one of them is going to make or break. It’s the variety of pickled items and fresh veggies that are the heart of this dish. Sometimes I swap around the tomatoes, have a handful of cherry tomatoes? Throw them in! Leftover chopped salami? That too! Really, it’s ideal for after a party when you have leftover charcuterie. I have a local charcuterie business so I have these items on hand, when I get low or want to use stuff up, or have a party, I chop up all the extra tidbits on hand and have a whole new meal. Any type of olives work, anything extra you have pickled on your board can be thrown in. Use it all!
Insalata di Riso Recipe — Italian Rice Salad — Gluten Free, Allergy Friendly, Frugal and Adaptable
4 green onions
1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
1 small tomato, chopped
1 carrot, minced
1/4 cup peas, frozen
1 (14 oz.) jar marinated artichoke hearts, drained (optional but recommended; can be replaced with chopped frozen artichoke)
2-3 tablespoons cornichon or pickles, chopped
1 long pepper, sliced, or other non spicy pepper, diced
1 handful parsley, chopped
1/4 cup olive oil
1/4 cup vinegar
1-2 cloves garlic, grated
1/4 teaspoon salt
Dash black pepper
Optional extras
Grated or minced hard cheese
Hard-boiled eggs
Diced, cured, meats
Flaked Tuna
Directions
1. Cover the carrots with water and microwave for 1 minute or simmer until slightly tender but not totally soft.
2. Whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Add all of the vegetables to the dressing and toss to coat.
5. Add the rice and toss again, making sure that the vegetables we evenly distributed.
6. Add any extras you want to incorporate after the rice and vegetables are well-mixed.
7. Serve immediately.
I am to try this one !
I am to try this one !