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Rice Salad

European Rice Salad with Ham and Mushrooms

This European Rice Salad with Ham and Mushrooms is a simple, colorful salad made with fluffy rice, cooked ham, mushrooms, sweet peppers, peas, and a light herb vinaigrette. Adapted from a traditional Latvian cookbook, it's perfect for picnics, lunches, buffets, and meal prep.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Salad
Cuisine: European
Calories: 320
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 300 g cooked white rice cooled
  • 100 g cooked ham diced
  • 100 g cooked mushrooms diced
  • 100 g sweet bell pepper diced
  • 100 g green peas
  • 250 g light oil and vinegar dressing (vinaigrette)
  • 15 g fresh dill chopped
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Method
 

  1. Cook the rice according to package instructions and allow it to cool completely.
  2. Dice the cooked ham into bite-sized cubes.
  3. Slice the cooked mushrooms.
  4. Dice the bell pepper.
  5. Combine the rice, ham, mushrooms, bell pepper, and peas in a large bowl.
  6. Pour over the vinaigrette dressing and gently toss until evenly coated.
  7. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
  8. Stir in the chopped fresh dill.
  9. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • The original recipe uses a simple oil and vinegar dressing rather than mayonnaise, making it lighter than many traditional rice salads.
  • This salad is excellent for picnics, lunch boxes, and summer gatherings.
  • You can substitute chicken or turkey for the ham if preferred.