Vibrant Basmati Rice Salad with Dried Fruits and Nuts
This delightful salad brings together the fragrant essence of basmati rice infused with turmeric, complemented by a harmony of crunchy nuts and sweet dried fruits. Inspired by a cherished dinner at my husband's adviser's home, this dish quickly became a family favorite. It's perfect as a refreshing side dish or a light main course, boasting a beautiful medley of flavors and textures. Best served fresh, it’s ideal for potlucks, gatherings, or simply enjoying at home on a warm day.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
Basmati rice
1 1/4 cups (Rinsed)
Turmeric
1/4 teaspoon
Olive oil
2 tablespoons (For cooking)
Onion
1 (Chopped)
Garlic cloves
2 (Crushed)
Blanched almonds
1 cup
Pine nuts
1/2 cup
Lemon
1 (Juice only)
Apricots
2/3 cup (Sliced)
Sultanas
1/3 cup
Coriander
3 tablespoons (Chopped)
Instructions
1
Fill a large saucepan halfway with water and bring it to a rolling boil.
2
Rinse the basmati rice under cold water in a sieve until the water runs clear, then add it to the boiling water along with the turmeric. Allow it to boil uncovered for 10-12 minutes, or until the rice is tender.
3
Once cooked, drain the rice in a strainer and transfer it to a large mixing bowl.
4
In a separate saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and crushed garlic, cooking gently for about 5 minutes until they are soft and translucent.
5
Increase the heat to medium-high and stir in the blanched almonds and pine nuts. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring frequently until the onion becomes golden brown and the nuts are toasted.
6
Combine the onion and nut mixture with the warm rice in the bowl. Squeeze in the juice of one tablespoon of lemon, which will turn the rice a lovely bright yellow.
7
Add the sliced apricots, sultanas, and chopped coriander to the bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8
Taste the salad and add more lemon juice if desired for extra brightness. Toss everything gently to combine and serve immediately for the freshest flavor.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary rice variety used in this salad?
The recipe uses 1 1/4 cups of Basmati rice for its fragrant essence and light texture.
How long should I boil the Basmati rice?
The rice should be boiled uncovered for 10-12 minutes, or until it is tender.
What gives the rice its vibrant yellow color?
A combination of 1/4 teaspoon of turmeric added during boiling and one tablespoon of lemon juice added later creates the bright yellow hue.
Is this rice salad suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this is a vegetarian recipe featuring nuts, dried fruits, and basmati rice.
What types of nuts are included in the recipe?
The salad includes 1 cup of blanched almonds and 1/2 cup of pine nuts.
Which dried fruits are used in this dish?
The recipe calls for 2/3 cup of sliced apricots and 1/3 cup of sultanas.
Do I need to rinse the rice before cooking?
Yes, you should rinse the basmati rice under cold water in a sieve until the water runs clear.
How is the garlic prepared for this salad?
The recipe requires 2 garlic cloves that should be crushed and then gently cooked with onion.
What kind of oil is recommended for sautéing?
The recipe specifies using 2 tablespoons of olive oil for cooking the onions, garlic, and nuts.
How long should I cook the onions and garlic?
Cook the chopped onion and crushed garlic over medium heat for about 5 minutes until soft and translucent.
When should I add the nuts to the pan?
Add the blanched almonds and pine nuts after the onions have softened, then increase the heat and cook for another 5 minutes.
Which fresh herb is used in this recipe?
The salad is finished with 3 tablespoons of freshly chopped coriander.
Should this salad be served hot or cold?
It is best served fresh and is described as a refreshing side dish or light main course, ideal for warm days.
Can I adjust the level of acidity in the salad?
Yes, after tasting the salad, you can add more lemon juice if desired for extra brightness.
Is this a good dish for potlucks?
Yes, its vibrant color and flavor profile make it an ideal dish for potlucks, gatherings, or family meals.
How many total ingredients are needed for this recipe?
There are 11 main ingredients including the rice, spices, oil, aromatics, nuts, dried fruits, and herbs.
What preparation is needed for the apricots?
The apricots should be sliced before being added to the rice mixture.
How should I cook the nuts to ensure they are toasted?
Stir the nuts frequently over medium-high heat with the onions until the onions are golden brown and the nuts are toasted.
What is the source of inspiration for this recipe?
The recipe was inspired by a dinner at the home of the author's husband's adviser.
Does the recipe include seasoning?
Yes, you should season the salad with salt and pepper to taste at the final stage of preparation.
What is the quantity of turmeric used?
The recipe uses 1/4 teaspoon of turmeric.
Can this salad be a main course?
Yes, it is versatile enough to be served as either a refreshing side dish or a light main course.
What is the recommended method for cooling the rice?
Once cooked, drain the rice in a strainer and transfer it to a large mixing bowl to combine with other ingredients while still warm.
Are the almonds used whole or sliced?
The recipe specifies using 1 cup of blanched almonds, which are typically whole or halved but lack the skins.
What is the role of lemon juice in this recipe?
Lemon juice provides acidity for brightness and helps set the vibrant yellow color of the turmeric-stained rice.
How many onions are required?
The recipe requires one onion, which should be chopped.
How do I know when the onions and nuts are finished cooking?
They are ready when the onions become golden brown and the nuts are toasted.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
While it can be prepared ahead, the recipe recommends serving it immediately for the freshest flavor.
What is the quantity of sultanas used?
The recipe calls for 1/3 cup of sultanas.
How should I toss the ingredients together?
You should toss everything gently in a large mixing bowl to combine the rice, nuts, fruit, and herbs without breaking the rice grains.