Quick Ways to Make Warm Italian Rice Salad With Sausage And Romaine Like a Chef

Updated
2 min read

Warm italian rice salad with sausage and romaine –Discover a delightful and refreshing dish with our Italian Style Rice Salad. This recipe combines a variety of textures and flavors that are perfect for any occasion. With its vibrant colors and nutritious ingredients, this salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a healthy addition to your meal. Follow along as we dive into the ingredients and instructions that will guide you through creating this easy-to-make salad.

Italian Style Rice Salad

Boost your culinary skills with this simple yet delicious Italian Style Rice Salad. Perfect for meal prep, potlucks, or a light lunch, this dish is versatile enough to suit any palate.

Italian Style Rice Salad

Ingredients

  • 1 cup of uncooked rice (preferably Arborio or long-grain)
  • 2 cups of water or vegetable broth
  • 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup of cucumber, diced
  • 1/2 cup of red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup of bell peppers (red, yellow, or green), diced
  • 1/4 cup of black olives, sliced
  • 1/4 cup of feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
  • 1/4 cup of fresh basil leaves, chopped
  • 3 tablespoons of olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Begin by rinsing the uncooked rice under cold water to remove excess starch.
  2. In a medium saucepan, bring the water or vegetable broth to a boil. Add the rice, cover, and reduce the heat to low. Allow it to simmer for approximately 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it cool.
  3. While the rice is cooling, prepare your vegetables. Chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, bell peppers, and slice the olives.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled rice with the chopped vegetables, olives, and feta cheese (if using).
  5. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Pour this dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to combine all the ingredients.
  6. Finish by adding the chopped basil leaves and give the salad one last gentle toss.
  7. Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

This Italian Style Rice Salad is not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect addition to your meal plan. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and freshness in every bite!