Mary Berry Red Rice Salad

Dive into the world of vibrant flavors with the Mary Berry Red Rice Salad, a dish that combines the nuttiness of red rice with the freshness of vegetables and herbs, dressed in a tangy, sweet, and spicy lime-honey-chili dressing. This recipe, adapted from Mary Berry, renowned for her classic and elegant dishes, is perfect for summer lunches, barbecues, or potlucks, and caters to a variety of dietary preferences being vegan and gluten-free.

Ingredients for the Mary Berry Red Rice Salad

• Red Rice: 450g (approximately 1lb), serves as the base with its unique nutty flavor and chewy texture.
• Vegetables: A mix of carrots (6), spring onions (8), and a small bunch of coriander leaves, adding color, crunch, and freshness.
• Dressing Ingredients: The dressing is a blend of lime (4, zest and juice), honey (4 tsp), red chilies (2, finely chopped), light olive oil (4 tbsp), and cider vinegar (2 tbsp), with salt and pepper to taste, creating a perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and spicy flavors.

Preparation Instructions

1. Cook the Rice: Begin by cooking the red rice with a teaspoon of salt until it is tender but still has a bite, then rinse under cold water and drain.
2. Prepare the Vegetables: Coarsely grate the carrots and thinly slice the spring onions. Mix these with the rice and half of the chopped coriander.
3. Make the Dressing: Whisk the dressing ingredients together, adjust the seasoning to taste, and pour over the salad, mixing well.
4. Serve: Garnish with the remaining coriander before serving. This salad can be enjoyed immediately or refrigerated for later.

Storage and Reheating

This salad stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container, making it a great make-ahead option for busy days or meal prep. It can be enjoyed cold, straight from the fridge, or brought to room temperature for more pronounced flavors.

Nutritional Information

A serving of this salad provides a good balance of nutrients, including approximately 275 kcal, 12g of fat, 36g of carbohydrates, 4g of fiber, 3g of sugar, and 8g of protein. It's rich in antioxidants, fiber, and minerals thanks to the red rice and the variety of vegetables used.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I substitute ingredients in the Mary Berry Red Rice Salad? A: Absolutely! Feel free to swap out vegetables based on availability or preference. Brown rice or wild rice can be used instead of red rice, and additional herbs or spices can be added to suit your taste.

Q: What makes red rice special in this salad? A: Red rice brings a unique nutty flavor and a chewy texture to the salad, along with being rich in antioxidants and minerals. It also adds a beautiful color contrast to the dish.

For a detailed dive into the recipe, explore the richness of flavors and textures in this delightful salad that's as nutritious as it is delicious. Whether you're looking for a stand-alone meal or a complement to your main dish, the Mary Berry Red Rice Salad is a versatile choice that promises satisfaction.

Enjoy your culinary adventure with this elegant and healthy salad that's sure to impress at any table​​​​​​.