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Spinach Salad with Brown Rice and Mandarin Orange Dressing

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Spinach Salad with Brown Rice and Mandarin Orange Dressing

Looking for a refreshing and nutritious dish that will tantalize your taste buds? Dive into the vibrant world of our Spinach Salad with Brown Rice and Mandarin Orange Dressing! This delightful salad combines the earthy goodness of fresh spinach and wholesome brown rice with the sweet zing of mandarin oranges, creating a symphony of flavors that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re prepping for a family dinner or seeking a quick yet satisfying lunch, this recipe promises to impress. Trust us, once you try this colorful medley, you’ll be coming back for seconds!

Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings

Ingredients

  1. 4 cups fresh spinach
  2. 1 cup cooked brown rice
  3. 1/2 cup mandarin oranges, drained
  4. 1/4 cup sliced almonds
  5. 1/4 cup red onion, sliced
  6. 1/4 cup olive oil
  7. 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  8. Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the brown rice according to package instructions. If using pre-cooked rice, ensure it is at room temperature. Spread rice on a plate to cool and prevent clumping.
  2. While rice is cooking, wash the fresh spinach leaves thoroughly under cold running water. Pat dry using paper towels or use a salad spinner to remove excess moisture.
  3. Slice the red onion into thin, half-moon shaped pieces. Set aside.
  4. Drain the mandarin oranges completely, gently patting them dry to prevent excess liquid in the salad.
  5. In a small bowl, prepare the dressing by whisking together olive oil, rice vinegar, salt, and pepper until well combined and slightly emulsified.
  6. In a large salad bowl, spread the fresh spinach leaves as the base layer.
  7. Top the spinach with cooled brown rice, distributing it evenly across the greens.
  8. Scatter mandarin orange segments over the rice and spinach.
  9. Sprinkle sliced red onions and toasted almonds over the salad.
  10. Drizzle the prepared mandarin orange dressing just before serving, ensuring even coverage.
  11. Gently toss the salad to mix ingredients without bruising the spinach leaves.
  12. Serve immediately at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.

Tips

  1. Perfectly Cooked Rice: For the best texture, ensure your brown rice is cooked and cooled properly. If you’re using pre-cooked rice, spread it out on a plate to cool and avoid clumping.
  2. Fresh Spinach: Always wash your spinach thoroughly to remove any dirt or grit. Using a salad spinner can be a game-changer for drying the leaves quickly.
  3. Dressing Magic: For an extra burst of flavor, let your dressing sit for a few minutes after whisking. This allows the ingredients to meld together beautifully.
  4. Add Crunch: Toast your sliced almonds in a dry skillet for a few minutes before adding them to the salad. This enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch.
  5. Layering Technique: When assembling your salad, layer the spinach first, followed by the rice, oranges, onions, and almonds. This not only looks appealing but also ensures even distribution of flavors.
  6. Serve Fresh: Toss the salad with dressing just before serving to keep the spinach crisp and fresh. Enjoy it at room temperature for the best flavor!

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 280kcal

Carbohydrates: 25g

Protein: 6g

Fat: 18g

Saturated Fat: g

Cholesterol: 0mg

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