This Crispy Rice Salad with Cucumbers and Herbs is a refreshing, vibrant dish that combines crunchy toasted rice with crisp cucumbers, fragrant herbs, and a tangy dressing. It’s light yet satisfying, making it a perfect side dish or a stand-alone meal. The crispy rice adds a delightful texture, while the cucumbers and herbs bring a cool, refreshing balance. This dish is inspired by Southeast Asian flavors and is ideal for warm-weather meals or light lunches.
Ingredients
For the Crispy Rice:
- 2 cups cooked jasmine or sushi rice (cooled)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil or neutral oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
For the Salad:
- 1 cup thinly sliced cucumber (Persian or English work best)
- ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- ½ cup chopped fresh mint
- ¼ cup chopped fresh basil (Thai or regular)
- 3 green onions, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup toasted peanuts or cashews (optional, for crunch)
- 1 small red chili or ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons lime juice (about 1 lime)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free)
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or sesame oil
Instructions
- Prepare the Crispy Rice:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Spread the cooked rice in an even layer and let it cook undisturbed for about 3–5 minutes until the bottom becomes golden and crispy.
- Stir and continue cooking for another 2–3 minutes, allowing more parts of the rice to crisp up.
- Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
- Make the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey, grated ginger, minced garlic, and olive oil or sesame oil.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Assemble the Salad:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, chopped herbs (cilantro, mint, basil), green onions, and toasted peanuts or cashews.
- Add the crispy rice and gently toss everything together.
- Dress the Salad:
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
- Let it sit for 5–10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve & Enjoy:
- Serve immediately as a refreshing main dish or a side with grilled meats, seafood, or tofu.
- Garnish with extra herbs and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with grilled shrimp, tofu, or chicken for a protein boost.
- Pair with a coconut curry soup for a light yet satisfying meal.
- Add a handful of pomegranate seeds for a touch of sweetness and color.
This Crispy Rice Salad with Cucumbers and Herbs is a delightful mix of textures and flavors—crunchy, fresh, tangy, and herbaceous, making it the perfect dish for any occasion! 🥒🌿🍚