Cilantro Rice Salad

Bright, zesty, and irresistibly fresh, this Cilantro Rice Salad is a vibrant medley of flavors and textures perfect for any occasion. Featuring fluffy white or brown rice tossed with crisp cucumber, juicy cherry tomatoes, red onion, and fragrant scallions, this dish gets its bold character from a citrusy lime and olive oil dressing infused with fresh cilantro and a touch of garlic. Optional jalapeño adds a hint of spice for those who crave a little heat! This quick and easy recipe, ready in just 35 minutes, is a healthy, gluten-free choice that can be served chilled as a refreshing side dish or a light standalone meal. Perfect for summer gatherings, meal prep, or a weeknight dinner, it’s a must-try for lovers of bright, herbaceous flavors and wholesome ingredients!

Nutriscore Rating: 70/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 cups white or brown rice
• 4 cups water
• 1 cup fresh cilantro
• 2 whole lime
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 0.5 cup red onion
• 1 cup cucumber
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes
• 2 stalks scallions
• 1 whole jalapeño (optional)
• 1 clove garlic

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a medium pot, combine the rice and water, and bring to a boil.

Step 2

Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until all the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked. Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.

Step 3

While the rice is cooking, finely chop the cilantro and set aside. Juice the limes and mince the garlic.

Step 4

Dice the red onion, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes into bite-sized pieces. Thinly slice the scallions and, if using, finely dice the jalapeño (removing the seeds for less heat).

Step 5

In a large bowl, combine the cooled rice, cilantro, red onion, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, scallions, and jalapeño.

Step 6

In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper.

Step 7

Pour the dressing over the rice mixture and toss gently to combine, ensuring all ingredients are evenly coated.

Step 8

Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 9

Serve cold or at room temperature as a refreshing side dish or light meal.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1954g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1037.1

Total Fat 44.3g	0%
Saturated Fat 7.0g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 4.1g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 2424.5mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 149.0g	0%
Dietary Fiber 10.8g	0%
Total Sugars 13.3g
Protein 15.9g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 240.0mg	0%
Iron 4.0mg	0%
Potassium 1138.3mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 37.7%

Protein: 6.0%

Carbs: 56.3%