Moroccan Rice Salad

This Moroccan Rice Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that combines fragrant spices with a colorful medley of vegetables and herbs. Perfect as a side dish or light meal, it captures the essence of Moroccan flavors in every bite.

Ingredients

• Basmati rice - 150 grams
• Water - 300 milliliters
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Red bell pepper - 1 medium, diced
• Cucumber - 1 medium, diced
• Cherry tomatoes - 100 grams, halved
• Red onion - 1/4 medium, finely chopped
• Fresh parsley - 2 tablespoons, chopped
• Fresh mint - 2 tablespoons, chopped
• Lemon juice - 2 tablespoons
• Cumin - 1 teaspoon
• Salt - 1/2 teaspoon
• Ground black pepper - 1/4 teaspoon

Steps

1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice and water. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
3. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the rice is tender and all the water is absorbed.
4. Remove from heat and let the rice sit covered for an additional 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
5. While the rice is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Dice the red bell pepper, cucumber, and finely chop the red onion.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine the fluffed rice, diced vegetables, cherry tomatoes, parsley, and mint.
7. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
8. Pour the dressing over the rice salad and gently toss to combine all the ingredients evenly.
9. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or lemon juice to your preference.
10. Serve the salad at room temperature or chilled, garnished with extra herbs if desired.

Nutrition

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 6 g
• Carbs: 56 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 250 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Total Fat: 12 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Water: 0.3 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes gut health.
• Contains antioxidants from fresh vegetables, which can help reduce inflammation.

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