Rice Salad Surprise

Brighten up your table with this colorful and refreshing Rice Salad Surprise! Combining tender basmati rice with a vibrant medley of red and yellow bell peppers, crisp cucumber, sweet corn, and protein-packed chickpeas, this dish is a feast for both the eyes and the palate. Tossed in a zesty lemon-honey dressing and topped with a sprinkle of fresh parsley—and optional creamy feta for an extra layer of flavor—this salad strikes the perfect balance of textures and tastes. Quick to prepare in just 30 minutes and ideal for meal prep or a light meal, this versatile recipe is a delicious way to enjoy healthy whole foods. Serve it chilled for an easy side dish, picnic staple, or refreshing summer meal!

Nutriscore Rating: 73/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:15 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup basmati rice
• 2 cups water
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium red bell pepper
• 1 medium yellow bell pepper
• 1 medium cucumber
• 0.5 cup frozen sweet corn
• 0.5 cup cooked chickpeas
• 0.25 cup fresh parsley
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 0.5 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 0.25 cup feta cheese (optional)

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear.

Step 2

In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water and 0.5 teaspoon of salt to a boil. Add the rinsed rice, lower the heat, cover, and simmer for 12-15 minutes or until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed.

Step 3

Once cooked, spread the rice on a large plate or baking sheet to cool completely.

Step 4

While the rice cools, dice the red and yellow bell peppers into small pieces. Peel and dice the cucumber. Chop the parsley finely.

Step 5

Blanch the frozen sweet corn by pouring boiling water over it, letting it sit for 1 minute, and then draining it thoroughly.

Step 6

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and cooled rice, diced bell peppers, cucumber, sweet corn, cooked chickpeas, and parsley.

Step 7

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, honey, and ground black pepper to create the dressing.

Step 8

Pour the dressing over the rice and vegetable mix. Toss gently to combine and ensure everything is coated evenly.

Step 9

If using, crumble feta cheese on top before serving for added creaminess and flavor.

Step 10

Serve immediately as a light meal or refrigerate for 1-2 hours to allow flavors to meld. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1529 grams (1529.0g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1058

Total Fat 46.60g	60%
Saturated Fat 14.30g	72%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.70g
Cholesterol 53mg	18%
Sodium 1916mg	83%
Total Carbohydrate 134.80g	49%
Dietary Fiber 17.10g	61%
Total Sugars 26.40g
Protein 32.80g	66%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 478mg	37%
Iron 10mg	54%
Potassium 1784mg	38%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 38.5%

Protein: 12.0%

Carbs: 49.5%