Mediterranean Basmati Rice Salad

Ingredients

Basmati rice

1 cup

Water

2 cups

Salt

1/2 teaspoon, plus a pinch for cooking rice

Cucumber

1, diced

Yellow bell pepper

1, diced

Red bell pepper

1, diced

Cherry tomatoes

1 cup, halved

Red onion

1/2, finely chopped

Fresh parsley

1/4 cup, chopped

Fresh mint

1/4 cup, chopped

Olive oil

3 tablespoons

Lemon juice

2 tablespoons

Black pepper

1/4 teaspoon

Instructions

1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water to remove excess starch until the water runs clear.
2. In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Stir in the rinsed basmati rice and a pinch of salt. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is fluffy and all water is absorbed.
3. Once the rice is cooked, remove it from heat and let it cool completely in a large bowl, fluffing it occasionally with a fork.
4. While the rice cools, prepare the vegetables: dice the cucumber, yellow bell pepper, and red bell pepper; halve the cherry tomatoes; and finely chop the red onion, parsley, and mint.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and black pepper to create a zesty dressing.
6. Once the rice has cooled, add the diced vegetables, chopped herbs, and the dressing to the bowl. Toss gently to combine everything evenly.
7. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
8. Serve chilled as a refreshing salad or side dish.