Crispy Rice Salad with Cucumbers and Herbs is a vibrant and refreshing dish that perfectly balances crunchy rice with the coolness of cucumbers and aromatic herbs. It’s quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for a light lunch, side dish, or as a refreshing appetizer. The crispy rice adds texture, while fresh lemon juice and herbs bring brightness and flavor to the dish. It’s a versatile and wholesome salad you can enjoy year-round!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked day-old rice

• 1 cup diced English cucumbers

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

• 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Prepare the Rice: Spread the cooked rice on a baking sheet in a thin layer and refrigerate for at least one hour to chill.

2. Fry the Rice: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chilled rice in batches, pressing down slightly. Fry until golden brown and crispy on one side (about 5-7 minutes), then flip to crisp the other side.

3. Chop Vegetables: While the rice is frying, chop the cucumbers and finely chop the herbs.

4. Make Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to taste.

5. Combine Ingredients: Once the rice is crispy, remove from heat and mix it with the cucumbers and herbs in a large bowl. Drizzle with the dressing and toss gently.

6. Serve: Transfer to plates or a serving bowl, garnishing with extra herbs if desired.

Nutritional Information (per serving, 1 cup)

• Calories: 390 kcal

• Sugar: 2g

• Sodium: 180mg

• Fat: 17g

  • Saturated Fat: 2g

  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g

• Carbohydrates: 55g

  • Fiber: 3g

• Protein: 8g

• Cholesterol: 0mg

The Crispy Rice: Crunch and Texture

The crispy rice is the heart of this salad, providing a satisfying crunch that contrasts wonderfully with the refreshing cucumbers and tender herbs. By chilling the cooked rice beforehand, you create the perfect base for frying it into crispy golden pieces. When frying, the rice becomes delightfully crunchy on the outside while remaining soft on the inside, giving each bite a mix of textures.

Day-old rice works best for this recipe because it has had time to dry out, which helps it crisp up better during the frying process. The rice is fried in olive oil, which not only adds flavor but also ensures the rice becomes crisp without sticking to the skillet. The result is a crispy, golden texture that adds an exciting contrast to the lightness of the cucumbers and herbs.

Cucumbers: Cool and Refreshing

Cucumbers are the perfect addition to this salad, bringing a cool, crisp texture and a mild, refreshing flavor that balances the richness of the crispy rice. They add a hydrating quality to the dish, making it even more satisfying, especially on warm days. Diced English cucumbers are an excellent choice because they have a tender skin and fewer seeds, offering a smooth texture that complements the other ingredients. Their clean, subtle flavor pairs beautifully with the fragrant herbs and the zesty lemon dressing.

The cucumbers provide not only flavor and texture but also nutritional benefits, being low in calories and high in water content, which helps keep you feeling refreshed and hydrated.

Herbs: Aromatic and Flavorful

Fresh herbs are what really elevate this salad, giving it a burst of flavor and fragrance. Parsley, mint, and cilantro each bring their unique qualities to the dish. Parsley adds a mild, earthy flavor that enhances the overall freshness of the salad. Mint contributes a refreshing, slightly sweet note that brightens the dish and adds an unexpected twist. Cilantro offers a citrusy, slightly peppery flavor that complements the cucumbers and rice.

The combination of these three herbs creates a well-rounded, vibrant flavor profile that contrasts beautifully with the crispy rice and the refreshing cucumbers. If you’re not a fan of one of these herbs, feel free to adjust the ratio to suit your taste or substitute with other herbs like basil or dill for different flavor profiles.

Lemon Dressing: Bright and Tangy

The dressing for this salad is simple yet incredibly flavorful. Made with freshly squeezed lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, salt, and pepper, it brings a zesty tang to the dish that enhances the flavors of the rice, cucumbers, and herbs. The lemon juice provides acidity, which cuts through the richness of the crispy rice, while the olive oil adds a smooth, fruity finish that ties everything together.

This light dressing is the perfect complement to the dish, offering just the right amount of brightness without overpowering the other ingredients. It’s also a healthy choice, with olive oil providing heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants.

Putting It All Together

Assembling this salad is a simple process that comes together quickly. After frying the rice until it’s golden and crispy, you mix it with the freshly chopped cucumbers and herbs in a large bowl. The dressing is drizzled over the top, and everything is tossed gently to ensure even coating. The final result is a beautiful dish that is both visually appealing and incredibly satisfying to eat.

Once assembled, the salad can be served immediately, or it can be chilled in the fridge for a little while to allow the flavors to meld together. Either way, it’s a vibrant and refreshing dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

Nutritional Benefits

Crispy Rice Salad with Cucumbers and Herbs is not only delicious but also provides several nutritional benefits. Each serving is packed with complex carbohydrates from the rice, which provide a steady source of energy. The olive oil and herbs add healthy fats and antioxidants, supporting heart health and reducing inflammation. The cucumbers bring hydration and fiber, while the fresh herbs offer vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C and vitamin K.

At approximately 390 calories per serving, this salad is a light yet satisfying option. It provides a healthy balance of carbohydrates, fats, and protein, making it a perfect choice for a nutritious lunch or side dish. The fiber content (around 3g per serving) helps with digestion, while the protein (about 8g per serving) from the rice and olive oil helps keep you feeling full and satisfied.

Serving Suggestions

Crispy Rice Salad with Cucumbers and Herbs is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with grilled chicken, fish, or tofu for added protein. It’s also a great side dish to accompany larger meals, such as grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or sandwiches.

If you’re looking to make it a bit heartier, you could mix in some cooked quinoa or chickpeas for an additional boost of protein and fiber. For a more substantial meal, serve it alongside a refreshing yogurt-based dressing or a light dipping sauce.

This salad is also perfect for meal prep. You can prepare the crispy rice in advance, and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble the salad. Just add the fresh vegetables, herbs, and dressing right before serving to ensure the salad stays fresh and vibrant.

Conclusion

Crispy Rice Salad with Cucumbers and Herbs is a light, vibrant, and refreshing dish that’s full of flavor and texture. The crispy rice pairs beautifully with the cool cucumbers, aromatic herbs, and zesty lemon dressing, making it a satisfying and wholesome meal. Whether enjoyed as a light lunch, a side dish, or a refreshing appetizer, this salad is a versatile and nourishing option that can be enjoyed year-round. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s the perfect addition to any meal, offering a burst of freshness and flavor in every bite.