If you’re craving a fresh and vibrant dish that’s as colorful as it is delicious, this Mediterranean Rice Salad Recipe is your new go-to. Imagine fluffy long-grain rice mingling with juicy cherry tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, briny Kalamata olives, and creamy feta cheese, all tossed in a tangy, herb-infused dressing that makes every bite burst with flavor. It’s light yet satisfying, perfect for a quick lunch, a picnic, or as a side that brings Mediterranean sunshine to your table. Once you try this salad, it’s hard not to make it a regular in your recipe rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe relies on simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully to create incredible texture and flavor. Each component plays a crucial role from the juicy cherry tomatoes for sweetness to the fresh herbs that lend a bright, aromatic finish.
- 1 1/2 cups cooked long-grain rice, cooled: The fluffy base that soaks up all the flavors perfectly.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Adds juiciness and a pop of vibrant red color.
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced: Provides crisp, refreshing crunch to balance richness.
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped: Brings a sharp bite that perks up the salad.
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced: A salty, briny element that screams Mediterranean charm.
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese: Creamy and tangy, it lends richness and depth.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: Bright and herbaceous, essential for that fresh finish.
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped: Adds a cooling, fragrant lift that beautifully contrasts the other flavors.
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil: The luscious dressing base that binds everything together.
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice: Provides a fresh, zesty punch to brighten the salad.
- 1 teaspoon red wine vinegar: A subtle tang that complements the lemon and olive oil.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: The classic Mediterranean herb that fills the salad with warmth and earthiness.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance every ingredient’s flavor.
How to Make Mediterranean Rice Salad Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Fresh Ingredients
Start by tossing the cooked and completely cooled rice together with the cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, finely chopped red onion, pitted and sliced Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese in a large bowl. This creates the vibrant, textured base of the salad, and the varied colors and shapes promise a delightful bite every time.
Step 2: Whisk Together the Dressing
In a separate small bowl, vigorously whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, and a pinch of salt and freshly cracked black pepper. This dressing is zesty and herbaceous, perfectly tying the salad ingredients together with a wonderful Mediterranean flair.
Step 3: Dress and Toss Gently
Pour the dressing over your rice and vegetable mixture, then gently toss to ensure every grain of rice and chunk of vegetable is coated. Be careful not to mash the ingredients; you want to keep the bright, fresh textures intact.
Step 4: Add Fresh Herbs and Chill
Finally, sprinkle in the chopped fresh parsley and mint, folding them lightly into the salad. These herbs elevate the entire dish with their refreshing aroma and bite. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving so the flavors meld into a harmonious blend that’s truly crave-worthy.
How to Serve Mediterranean Rice Salad Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of extra crumbled feta or a few whole Kalamata olives on top adds an inviting finishing touch. You could also add a wedge of lemon or a light drizzle of olive oil to brighten the presentation and flavor just before serving.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats like chicken or lamb, or alongside falafel for a complete vegetarian meal. It also complements fresh pita bread or roasted vegetables beautifully, enhancing your Mediterranean spread with variety and balance.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Mediterranean Rice Salad Recipe inside hollowed-out tomatoes or bell peppers as edible bowls. Alternatively, it makes an excellent filling for lettuce wraps or as a vibrant side in mason jars if you’re packing lunches or picnic baskets.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover Mediterranean Rice Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors only develop more as it sits, making it a perfect make-ahead option for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Freezing
This salad is best enjoyed fresh or chilled and does not freeze well because the vegetables and rice tend to become mushy when thawed. For best texture and flavor, it is recommended to prepare fresh servings or store refrigerated.
Reheating
Since this salad is designed to be served chilled or at room temperature, reheating isn’t necessary. Just give any leftovers a stir and let it sit out for a few minutes to take the chill off before serving.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of long-grain white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice adds more fiber and a nuttier flavor, which complements the fresh ingredients nicely. Just be sure to cook and cool it thoroughly before mixing to maintain the right texture.
Is this Mediterranean Rice Salad Recipe vegan-friendly?
To make it vegan, simply skip the feta cheese or use a plant-based cheese alternative. The salad still maintains plenty of flavor and texture from the other ingredients and dressing.
How long does the salad keep in the fridge?
You can keep it refrigerated for up to three days. Because of the fresh herbs and vegetables, it tastes best if consumed within that time frame for maximum freshness.
Can I add protein to this salad?
Definitely! Grilled chicken, chickpeas, or even cooked shrimp make excellent additions that boost the protein content and turn this salad into a satisfying main course.
What can I substitute for fresh mint?
If you don’t have fresh mint on hand, fresh basil is a great substitute that offers a different but equally delightful flavor that pairs well in this salad.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a flavorful, nourishing, and versatile dish, this Mediterranean Rice Salad Recipe is a fantastic choice. It’s simple to pull together, visually stunning, and packed with tastes that will brighten your day. Whether you’re serving it as a light lunch or a stylish side at your next dinner, this recipe is sure to become a cherished staple you’ll want to revisit again and again.
Print
Mediterranean Rice Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten Free
Description
A refreshing Mediterranean Rice Salad that combines cooked long-grain rice with vibrant cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumber, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese. Tossed in a zesty lemon and olive oil dressing with fresh parsley and mint, this salad is perfect for a light lunch or a make-ahead side dish. It’s vegetarian, gluten-free, and bursting with fresh flavors.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups cooked long-grain rice, cooled
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped
Dressing Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon red wine vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Rice and Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the cooked and cooled rice with the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, finely chopped red onion, sliced Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese. Mix these base salad ingredients gently to avoid mashing any of the components.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper until well combined. This dressing will infuse the salad with zesty and herby flavors.
- Toss the Salad: Pour the dressing over the rice and vegetable mixture. Toss gently but thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing for balanced flavor in every bite.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley and mint over the salad. Mix lightly to distribute the herbs without bruising them, preserving their fresh texture and aroma.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve the Mediterranean rice salad chilled or at room temperature as a refreshing side or light main course.
Notes
- For added protein, mix in grilled chicken or chickpeas to make it a heartier meal.
- Substitute fresh mint with fresh basil for a different but equally delightful flavor profile.
- This salad keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it a great option for meal prep or picnics.
