Craving a vibrant, flavorful salad that's both hearty and easy to make? Saddle up and get ready to discover the magic of Cowboy Rice Salad!
We'll guide you through a simple recipe packed with colorful veggies, protein-rich beans, and a dressing that's sure to be a crowd-pleaser, but can't reveal all the secrets just yet!
Ingredients Rundown
Alright, let's explore into what you'll need to make this awesome Cowboy Rice Salad. We're talking cooked brown rice—4 1/2 cups of it! I like the nutty flavor it adds; however, if you're going to use white rice, you must use 1 1/2 cups of uncooked rice! Like Cowboy Bean Salad, this dish can be incredibly convenient and adaptable.
For the dressing, grab 1/3 cup of lime juice (plus extra); 1/2 cup of olive oil; 1 1/2 tablespoons of honey; 1/2 teaspoon each of chipotle powder, cumin powder, and garlic powder; and also, finally, 3/4 teaspoon of salt, plus some black pepper.
Now, for the salad, you will need 1 red and 1 green bell pepper, diced; 1 small red onion, chopped; a can each of corn and black beans; 3 tomatoes, diced (seedless is better)! And, to finish it all, grab 1 cup of cilantro, roughly chopped—unless you're not a fan, then try scallions.
Step-by-Step Guide
Now, let's get into the exciting part—making this Cowboy Rice Salad! First, grab a jar—it's dressing time! Pour in 1/3 cup of lime juice, 1/2 cup olive oil, 1 1/2 tbsp honey, 1/2 tsp each of chipotle, cumin, and garlic powder – or a minced garlic clove if you're feeling fancy. Add 3/4 tsp salt, pepper to taste, then shake, shake, shake! Give it a taste; add more lime if you want it zippier. With its focus on grains, vegetables, and a flavorful dressing, this salad offers a nutritional variety.
Next, find a big bowl – it's salad central! Toss in 4 1/2 cups of cooked brown rice (or white rice, if that's your jam!), 1 diced red bell pepper, 1 diced green bell pepper, 1 chopped red onion, a drained 14oz can of corn, a drained and rinsed 14oz can of black beans, 3 diced tomatoes and 1 cup of roughly chopped cilantro.
Drizzle that dressing over everything, then toss it all together! Serve immediately, or chill for later. It's fantastic either way!
Tips and Swaps
To make sure your Cowboy Rice Salad is a home run every time, I've got some cool tips 'n' swaps for you!
First off, I usually go with brown rice 'cause I'm all about that nutty goodness, but- hey- white rice works too! If you're using white rice, go for long grain; I think it's divine!
Don't skip the lime juice in the dressing! I like a nice zing, so I add a bit more to the dressing sometimes. Taste as you go–you'll find what you love!
Not a cilantro fan? No biggie! Scallions or chives are great swaps. Try 1 1/2 cups of sliced scallions or 3/4 cup of chopped chives. It'll still taste fantastic, I promise you. I've never steered you wrong!
Storing Leftovers
Since you're here, let's talk about storing leftovers so that this delicious Cowboy Rice Salad can bring joy for days! This salad keeps well, and you can totally enjoy it for about three days if you store it properly.
Just pop your leftover salad into an airtight container—it's important for freshness, y'know! Then, tuck it away in the fridge. It's safe and sound there! I wouldn't push it past three days, though; trust me on this one, okay?
Here are a few reminders to keep in mind:
- Keep it chilled!
- Airtight containers are your friend!
- Don't let it sit out too long before storing.
- Trust your senses—if it seems off, toss it!
Enjoy those delicious leftovers!
Short Recipe Version
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients:
1 cup long-grain rice
2 cups water
1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup corn kernels
1 red bell pepper, diced
1/2 cup red onion, diced
1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
1/4 cup lime juice
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook rice according to package directions; let cool.
- In a large bowl, combine rice, black beans, corn, bell pepper, red onion, and cilantro.
- In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Pour dressing over the rice mixture and toss to combine.
- Serve immediately or chill for later.
Nutrition (estimate per serving):
Calories: 250
Protein: 8g
Fat: 8g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 6g