What kind of rice is used in the Mediterranean?

Traditional Mediterranean cooking often uses long-grain white rice, basmati, or parboiled varieties for pilafs and salads. The grains are usually fluffy, separate, and light, which helps them absorb sauces without becoming mushy. Brown rice, though less traditional, is increasingly popular in modern Mediterranean-inspired dishes for its nutty flavor and nutritional boost. In this Mediterranean Rice Salad , brown rice adds a hearty texture that holds up well to bold dressings and vibrant veggies.

What to have with Mediterranean Rice?

This salad is a versatile dish that complements a wide range of Mediterranean favorites. It pairs beautifully with grilled proteins like chicken souvlaki, lamb chops, or baked salmon. For a vegetarian spread, serve it alongside dishes like baba ganoush, roasted eggplant, or chickpea fritters. You can also present it with fresh pita, hummus, and tzatziki for a colorful mezze board. Whether served warm or cold, this rice salad holds its own at any meal.

How long can you keep Mediterranean salad in the fridge?

Mediterranean rice salad stays fresh in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days when stored in an airtight container. To maintain peak flavor and texture, it’s best to store the dressing separately if you're making it ahead. Re-toss the salad before serving, and add more lemon juice or olive oil if it seems dry. Avoid freezing the salad, as the texture of fresh vegetables and leafy greens can become unpleasant once thawed.

What rice to use for rice salad?

For salads, the best rice varieties are long-grain types that remain separate when cooked. Brown rice is ideal for a hearty, nutty base, while basmati offers a lighter, more aromatic option. Wild rice and red rice blends also work well, especially when you want a complex, earthy flavor. Avoid sticky rice or short-grain varieties, which clump and absorb dressing unevenly. The goal is to keep every bite vibrant and textured.

Mediterranean Rice Salad – Remarkable Twist with 1 Easy Prep

Description

Mediterranean Rice Salad combines brown rice, veggies, and feta in a vibrant, zesty dish perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep.

Ingredients

1 cup brown rice (uncooked)
2 bell peppers, diced
½ cucumber, diced
1½ cups cherry tomatoes, quartered
¾ cup sweetcorn
1 small red onion, diced
1 cup canned butter beans, drained
2 cups spinach, chopped
⅓ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
⅔ cup mixed olives, chopped
¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled
2 tablespoons pine nuts
2 teaspoons fresh dill, finely chopped
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon honey
2 garlic cloves, minced
Salt and black pepper to taste
Juice of 1 lemon

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Instructions

Cook the brown rice according to package instructions. Once done, spread it on a large tray to cool quickly without rinsing.
In a large bowl, combine the cooled rice with bell peppers, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, sweetcorn, red onion, butter beans, spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, feta, pine nuts, and dill.
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, garlic, salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything gently to combine.
Chill until ready to serve.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Pasta and Grain Salads
Method: Mixing
Cuisine: Mediterranean