Name: Crispy Rice Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1.5 tablespoons olive oil; 1.5 tablespoons sesame oil; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 2 cups leftover cooked jasmine rice (day old is best); 4 cups broccoli florets; Kosher salt and pepper; 4 green onions (thinly sliced); ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro; 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds; 1 to 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil; lime wedges (for spritzing)

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Every time I think of summer, I can’t help but think of vibrant, fresh salads. One dish that always pops into my mind is Crispy Rice Salad. This delightful combination of textures and flavors is not only a feast for the eyes but also a treat for the palate. Picture this: a sunny afternoon, friends gathered around, and a bowl of this salad taking center stage. The crunchiness of the rice paired with the tender yet crisp broccoli truly elevates this dish. It’s perfect for potlucks or just a casual family dinner. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use leftover rice!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
45 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
35 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
220 kcal

Protein:
4 g

Diet:
Vegan, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
10 g

Tools Used:
Frying Pan, Whisk, Oven, Chef’s Knife, Baking Sheet

The Best Thing About This Crispy Rice Salad

It’s Refreshingly Unique

What I love most about Crispy Rice Salad is how different it is from your typical salads. The combination of textures—from the crispy rice to the tender broccoli—creates an exciting eating experience. It’s not just another bowl of greens!

Great for Leftovers

This recipe shines when it comes to using leftover rice. Instead of letting that day-old rice go to waste, it transforms into something totally new and delicious! Utilizing leftovers not only saves food but also saves you time in the kitchen.

Versatile & Adaptable

Another reason to love this dish is its versatility. You can easily swap in seasonal vegetables or whatever you have on hand. The base of crispy rice and broccoli works with different dressings and toppings, allowing you to customize it to your taste.

Perfect for Meal Prep

If you’re someone who likes to plan meals in advance, this salad is perfect! It holds well in the fridge, making it an excellent option for lunches throughout the week. Just add fresh toppings right before serving to keep everything crisp!

Bright Flavors

The addition of lime and fresh herbs like cilantro brings a burst of freshness that brightens each bite. It’s a wonderful way to add a pop of flavor without overwhelming the dish.

Easy to Make

With just a few straightforward steps, anyone can whip up this Crispy Rice Salad. It’s a no-fuss recipe that doesn’t compromise on taste or satisfaction. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, you’ll find joy in preparing this salad.

What You’ll Need for Crispy Rice Salad

The ingredients for Crispy Rice Salad are simple yet powerful. Each element contributes to a delightful balance, blending textures and flavors that truly bring the dish to life. Let’s break down these key players:

1.5 tablespoons olive oil: This healthy fat helps to crisp the rice while adding flavor.
1.5 tablespoons sesame oil: Adds a rich, nutty depth to the dish.
1 tablespoon soy sauce: A savory touch that enhances the overall flavor profile.
2 cups leftover cooked jasmine rice: Day-old rice works best as it’s less sticky and fries up perfectly.
4 cups broccoli florets: Provides crunch and vibrant green color, loaded with nutrients.
Kosher salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning, bringing all the flavors together.
4 green onions: Adds a fresh, mild onion flavor.
½ cup chopped fresh cilantro: Brightens the dish and adds a burst of freshness.
1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds: For garnish, they add both flavor and a decorative touch.
1 to 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil: A drizzle at the end enhances the sesame flavor.
Lime wedges: For spritzing, they contribute tanginess to balance the flavors.

Directions for Crispy Rice Salad

Getting started on this delicious Crispy Rice Salad is a breeze! Follow these simple steps to make a dish that will impress everyone at your table.

Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F. This high heat will help achieve that irresistible crispiness.
In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of sesame oil, and all of the soy sauce. This mixture is the flavorful base for your rice.
Drizzle the oil and soy sauce mixture over the leftover cooked jasmine rice, tossing well to ensure all the rice is evenly coated.
Spread the rice out on a baking sheet in a single layer. This helps it get crispy all around.
Roast the rice in the oven for 15 to 20 minutes. Watch for that beautiful golden color to appear, as you want the rice to be pretty crispy at this point.
If your rice is still a bit soft, you may need to roast it for an additional 10 to 15 minutes before adding the broccoli.
While the rice is roasting, prepare the broccoli florets. Toss them with the remaining ½ tablespoon of olive oil and ½ tablespoon of sesame oil, then sprinkle with Kosher salt and pepper.
Add the seasoned broccoli to the baking sheet with the rice. Toss well so everything mixes together, then return the pan to the oven.
Roast for another 15 to 20 minutes, or until the broccoli is golden and crisp.
Once done, scrape the broccoli and rice into a large bowl. Top with green onions, cilantro, and toasted sesame seeds.
Finish with a drizzle of toasted sesame oil and a few spritzes of lime. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Serve immediately and enjoy your creation!

Things Worth Knowing

Cooking time varies: The moisture content of your rice affects the crispiness. Adjust roasting times as needed.
Fresh vs. left over: Day-old rice is best for this recipe as it dries out slightly, giving better texture when roasted.
Customize your veggies: Feel free to add other seasonal vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for added crunch and flavor.
Watch your oven: Every oven is different. Keep an eye on the rice and broccoli to avoid burning.

Tips for Success

Here are some essential tips to ensure your Crispy Rice Salad turns out perfectly!

Storage: Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The rice may lose its crispiness, but it will still taste delicious.
Freezing: This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the cooked rice and broccoli separately. Reheat in the oven for a crispy texture.
Pairing: Serve alongside grilled chicken or tofu for a complete meal. It also makes a great side for any Asian-inspired dishes.
Adjust flavors: Feel free to add more lime juice or cilantro based on your personal preference for brightness and freshness.
Mix it up: Experiment with different oils or vinegar to create a unique flavor profile. A splash of rice vinegar can add a nice tang!

What to Serve With Crispy Rice Salad

Finding the perfect accompaniments for Crispy Rice Salad can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

Grilled Meats: Pair this salad with grilled chicken or shrimp for a satisfying protein boost.
Tofu Dishes: A delicious and hearty meal can be achieved by serving it with crispy or sautéed tofu.
Light Soups: Serve alongside a refreshing miso or vegetable soup for a delightful combination.
Wraps: Use this salad as a filling for lettuce wraps, creating a fresh and fun appetizer.
Picnics and Potlucks: This salad is perfect for outdoor gatherings. Just make sure to add the dressing or fresh herbs just before serving to maintain freshness!
Seasonal Variations: In spring, serve with fresh peas or asparagus; in summer, consider adding tomatoes.

FAQ

While you can use fresh rice, day-old rice works best because it’s drier and less sticky, which helps achieve a crispier texture when roasting. If you only have fresh rice, make sure to cool it completely before using it in the salad to avoid clumping.

Absolutely! Crispy Rice Salad is perfect for meal prep. You can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To keep the ingredients fresh, add any toppings such as cilantro or green onions just before serving.

If you’re looking to boost the protein content of your Crispy Rice Salad, consider adding grilled chicken, tofu, edamame, or chickpeas. These additions not only enhance the nutritional value but also make the salad more filling!

Yes, to make your Crispy Rice Salad gluten-free, simply use tamari instead of soy sauce. This substitution will keep the flavors intact while accommodating any gluten sensitivities.

Conclusion

In summary, Crispy Rice Salad is a delightful and versatile dish that brings together the best flavors and textures. It’s a fantastic way to use up leftovers while offering a fresh and vibrant meal option. I encourage you to try making it in your own kitchen. You won’t be disappointed with the delicious results!