7-Grain Salad with Orange Dressing
I would describe this salad as nutritious and interesting. Crunch and texture are my favorite elements in food. This salad can be served hot or cold, alongside a main course or as a lunch. The simple orange dressing is delicious, but feel free to experiment. Try sun-dried fruits, like cranberries, blueberries, or apricots. Pecans make a nice nut substitute.
Ingredients
2 and 1/2 cups water or vegetable or chicken stock
1 cup 7-grain rice mix
1 tsp unsalted butter
3/4 cup dried Black Misson figs, cut into quarters
1/2 cup chopped fresh mint
1/2 cup chopped Italian parsley
1/2 cup toasted pumpkin seeds
Orange Dressing
Zest of 1 orange
1/3 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
1 medium shallot, finely diced
1 small clove garlic, minced
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
Sea salt
Freshly ground pepper
Method
Bring the water or stock to a boil; add the rice mix and butter. Bring back to a boil; reduce heat, cover tightly and simmer for 35-40 minutes.
In the meantime, combine all orange dressing ingredients together. Taste and adjust seasoning and set aside.
When the rice is cooked, remove from heat, and place in a serving bowl. Pour the dressing over; add the figs and stir to combine. If you are serving the rice hot, add the herbs, top with toasted pumpkin seeds and serve immediately. If you are serving the rice at room temperature, let it cool, and just before serving, add the herbs and top with the pumpkin seeds.
Serves 6
IN A PINCH
Mixing several kinds of rice and grains yourself could be fun, but rice mixes can easily be purchased in most grocery stores. There are so many blends and mixes available, and when you're in a pinch, it's just one quick trip to the store and you can whip up this salad in no time.
