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Persian Brown Rice and Cashew Salad {Vegan, Gluten-Free}

persian rice salad 1
As promised, here is the grain salad I mentioned in yesterday’s post: an easy brown rice salad.
I love rice salads, in large part thanks to my mother who has several in her repertoire. The cooked grains soak up so much flavor–whatever the dressing you choose, the results will be delicious (for days). It’s a an excellent side dish, but with the addition of cashews, it can also take the lead as a light entree or lunch.

The ingredients in this particular salad are all familar, but the sum total  is decidedly exotic. I love the way cinnamon, in particular, can surprise and delight when used in savory dishes. Here it works with fresh lime–both the juice and the zest– to imbue the rice with tremendous flavor. Green onions and mint add color and freshness; cashews a buttery crunch.

Have a wonderful weekend! Hope the weather is as glorious where you are as it is here.

 persian rice salad 2
Persian Brown Rice and Cashew Salad {Vegan, Gluten-Free}

Persian Brown Rice and Cashew Salad {Vegan, Gluten-Free}

Yield: 6
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1-1/2 tsp    ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp fine sea salt
  • 2 tsp    finely grated lime zest
  • 3 tbsp  freshly squeezed lime juice
  • 3 tbsp  extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tbsp  honey or brown rice syrup
  • 3 cups cooked brown basmati rice or other long-grain brown rice, cooled
  • 1/2 cup chopped pitted dates
  • 3/4 cup thinly sliced green onions
  • 3/4 cup packed fresh mint leaves, chopped
  • 1/2 cup lightly salted roasted cashews, coarsely chopped

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together cinnamon, salt, lime zest, lime juice, oil and honey.
  2. In a large bowl, combine rice and dates. Add dressing and gently toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, until chilled, or for up to 24 hours. Just before serving, add green onions, mint and cashews, gently tossing to combine.

Did you make this recipe?

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Camilla

Thursday 17th of May 2012

Glad you and the family enjoyed it, Anna!

Camilla

Thursday 17th of May 2012

Kelly: It was a treat to meet you, too! I hope you enjoyed the conference as much as I did! :)

Camilla

Thursday 17th of May 2012

This comment has been removed by the author.

Anonymous

Thursday 17th of May 2012

Made this for the family last night--loved by all! Thanks for the great recipe!

Anna G.

Kelly

Wednesday 4th of April 2012

This looks fantastic. Just wanted to say that it was fantastic meeting you at IACP. I love that you are just as warm and friendly in person as you come across on the blog and in your books. Hope you enjoyed the rest of your conference.

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