Whole Grain Rice Salad with Oriental Peanut Dressing

This colorful and nutritious rice salad is packed with fresh vegetables, plant-based protein, and a creamy, flavorful dressing.

It makes a satisfying light meal or a delicious side dish.

Ingredients

For the Salad

• 1 cup cooked whole-grain rice, steamed and cooled (prepared from ½ cup dry rice)

• ½ cup bell pepper, diced

• ½ cup carrot,finely sliced

• ½ cup green onion, finely sliced

• ½ cup cucumber, diced

• ½ cup fresh coriander (cilantro),

• ½ cup soy schnitzel, cooked (or cooked beans of your choice)

• 1 cup lettuce leaves

• Lemon wedges, for serving

For the Dressing

• 1 tbsp light soy sauce

• 1 tbsp peanut butter

• 3 tbsp coconut milk

• 1 tsp sugar

• ½ tsp Turkish köfte mixed spice

• 1 tsp fresh lemon juice

• A pinch of black pepper

Method

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled rice, bell pepper, carrot, green onion, cucumber, coriander, soy schnitzel, and lettuce.

2. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, peanut butter, coconut milk, sugar, köfte spice, lemon juice, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.

3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until all the ingredients are evenly coated.

4. Serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of freshness.

Notes

• For added texture, sprinkle the salad with toasted seeds or chopped nuts.

• This salad can be prepared in advance; simply add the lettuce and dressing just before serving to keep it fresh and crisp.