Cowboy Rice Salad is a vibrant and hearty dish that brings together the bold flavors of the southwest. This recipe combines cooked brown rice with fresh vegetables, beans, and a zesty dressing. It’s perfect for a picnic, a potluck, or a simple family dinner. With its colorful ingredients, it not only looks appealing but is also packed with nutrients.
Why Make This Recipe
This Cowboy Rice Salad is not just tasty; it’s also very healthy! Made with brown rice, fresh veggies, and protein-rich black beans, this salad is a great way to enjoy a balanced meal. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and can be made in advance, making it ideal for busy days. The zesty dressing adds a wonderful kick that will have everyone coming back for more!
How to Make Cowboy Rice Salad
Ingredients:
- 4 1/2 cups cooked brown rice
- 1/3 cup lime juice (plus more to taste)
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1 1/2 tbsp honey
- 1/2 tsp chipotle powder (substitute with smoked paprika + cayenne pepper)
- 1/2 tsp cumin powder
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (or 1 garlic clove, minced)
- 3/4 tsp salt
- Black Pepper to taste
- 1 red capsicum/bell pepper, diced
- 1 green capsicum/bell pepper, diced
- 1 small red onion, chopped
- 1 x 400g (14oz) corn kernels, drained
- 1 x 400g (14oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 3 tomatoes, watery seeds removed then diced
- 1 cup coriander/cilantro leaves, roughly chopped
Directions:
- Start by placing all the dressing ingredients into a jar. Secure the lid and shake well. Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning if needed.
- In a large bowl, combine the salad ingredients and the cooked brown rice.
- Drizzle the dressing over the rice and vegetable mixture. Toss everything together until well mixed.
- Serve immediately or let it sit for a while to enhance the flavors. This salad is fantastic enjoyed right away or even the next day!
How to Serve Cowboy Rice Salad
Cowboy Rice Salad can be served in a large bowl for sharing or individual plates for convenience. It makes a great side dish, but you can also enjoy it as a main dish. Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
How to Store Cowboy Rice Salad
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. The salad will keep well for about 3-4 days. If you find the dressing has soaked into the rice, you can always drizzle a bit more lime juice or olive oil before serving again.
Tips to Make Cowboy Rice Salad
- Adjust the spices in the dressing to suit your taste. If you like it spicier, add more chipotle powder or cayenne.
- Feel free to use other vegetables like avocado, zucchini, or even jalapeños for an extra kick.
- Make sure to rinse the black beans well to remove any added sodium.
Variation (if any)
You can easily customize this salad with different grains like quinoa or farro instead of brown rice. You might also add grilled corn for a smoky flavor or roasted peppers for some sweetness.
FAQs
Q: Can I use wild rice instead of brown rice?
A: Yes, wild rice can add a unique texture and flavor to the salad!
Q: Is this salad vegan?
A: Yes, Cowboy Rice Salad is completely vegan, as it uses plant-based ingredients.
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can make it a day ahead. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve for the best flavor.
Enjoy making and sharing this delicious Cowboy Rice Salad with friends and family!
Cowboy Rice Salad
Ingredients
For the Dressing
- ⅓ cup lime juice (plus more to taste)
- ½ cup olive oil
- 1 ½ tbsp honey
- ½ tsp chipotle powder (substitute with smoked paprika + cayenne pepper)
- ½ tsp cumin powder
- ½ tsp garlic powder (or 1 garlic clove, minced)
- ¾ tsp salt
- Black Pepper to taste
Main Ingredients
- 4 ½ cups cooked brown rice
- 1 red capsicum/bell pepper diced
- 1 green capsicum/bell pepper diced
- 1 small red onion, chopped
- 1 x 400g (14oz) corn kernels, drained
- 1 x 400g (14oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 3 tomatoes, watery seeds removed then diced
- 1 cup coriander/cilantro leaves, roughly chopped
Instructions
Preparation
- Start by placing all the dressing ingredients into a jar. Secure the lid and shake well. Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning if needed.
- In a large bowl, combine the salad ingredients and the cooked brown rice.
- Drizzle the dressing over the rice and vegetable mixture. Toss everything together until well mixed.
Serving
- Serve immediately or let it sit for a while to enhance the flavors. This salad is fantastic enjoyed right away or even the next day!
