Mediterranean Rice Salad

The bright flavors of this dish make it the perfect side dish for anything grilled. Prep and Cook Time: 45 minutes.

Yield: Makes 6 to 8 servings

Ingredients

• 1 1/2  teaspoons  salt
• 1 1/2  cups  long-grain rice
• 1/4  cup  fresh lemon juice
• 1/3  cup  extra-virgin olive oil
• 1  clove garlic, minced
• 1  teaspoon  fresh oregano, minced
• 1/4  teaspoon  freshly ground black pepper
• 1/8  to 1/4 tsp. red pepper flakes
• 2  cups  chopped spinach leaves
• 1  red bell pepper, finely chopped
• 1  small cucumber, peeled, seeded, and finely chopped
• 1/2  cup  chopped green onion
• 1/2  cup  chopped kalamata olives
• 1  cup  crumbled feta cheese

Preparation

1. In a medium saucepan, bring 2 1/2 cups water to a boil. Add 1/2 tsp. salt and the rice. Turn heat to low, cover, and simmer 15 minutes. Remove from heat and let sit 5 minutes. Uncover and fluff with a fork.

2. In a large bowl, whisk lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, oregano, pepper, pepper flakes, and remaining tsp. salt.

3. Add rice to dressing and toss to combine. Add spinach, toss, and let sit until no longer steaming, about 20 minutes. Add remaining ingredients and toss to combine. Serve at room temperature or cold.

Note: Nutritional analysis is per serving.

Nutritional Information

Calories:

289 (47% from fat)

Protein:

5.6g

Fat:

15g (sat 4.2)

Carbohydrate:

32g

Fiber:

1.3g

Sodium:

793mg

Cholesterol:

15mg