Mary Berry Red Rice Salad Recipe

Looking for a vibrant, nutritious, and flavorful salad that doubles as a satisfying main or a colorful side? This Mary Berry Red Rice Salad Recipe is the perfect choice. It’s packed with wholesome ingredients, bursting with colors, and loaded with textures that make each bite exciting. The earthy flavor of red rice, combined with crunchy vegetables and a tangy dressing, makes this salad a crowd-pleaser. This dish can be made in under an hour and is ideal for picnics, potlucks, or healthy lunches.

What is Mary Berry Red Rice Salad?

Mary Berry’s red rice salad is a wholesome, hearty salad made with nutty red rice, assorted vegetables, and a zingy homemade dressing. It’s known for its bright appearance and satisfying bite. Red rice is boiled until tender yet firm, then tossed with flavorful ingredients like spring onions, peppers, herbs, and a tangy vinaigrette. This salad is typically served cold and can be prepared ahead of time, making it a perfect meal-prep option or side dish.

Other Salad Recipes

• Mary Berry Beetroot Tart
• Mary Berry Green Salad
• Mary Berry Rice Salad
• Nigella Rice Salad
• Mary Berry Quinoa Salad

Why You Should Try This Recipe

• Wholesome and filling – Red rice is rich in fiber and nutrients, making this salad both healthy and satisfying.
• Versatile dish – Works beautifully as a main, side, or picnic food.
• Make-ahead friendly – Tastes even better after the flavors have mingled in the fridge.
• Naturally gluten-free – A great option for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Packed with texture and flavor – Nutty rice, crunchy vegetables, and a tangy dressing create a balanced and exciting dish.
• Loved by all ages – It’s colorful, mild, and easy to customize for picky eaters or adventurous palates.

Ingredients Needed to Make Mary Berry Red Rice Salad

Here’s what you’ll need to make this hearty salad. Each ingredient adds flavor, texture, and nutrition to the dish:

• Red rice – 1 cup (uncooked): Nutty and slightly chewy, red rice forms the base of this salad.
• Spring onions – 3, finely sliced: Adds a mild onion flavor and crunch.
• Red bell pepper – 1, diced: Provides sweetness and vibrant color.
• Yellow bell pepper – 1, diced: Adds a pop of brightness and another layer of sweetness.
• Cucumber – ½, diced: Refreshing and hydrating.
• Cherry tomatoes – 10, halved: Juicy and sweet, they lift the entire dish.
• Fresh parsley – 2 tablespoons, chopped: Brings freshness and color.
• Salt and black pepper – to taste: Enhances the overall flavor.

For the Dressing:

• Olive oil – 3 tablespoons: Adds richness and smoothness.
• Red wine vinegar – 2 tablespoons: Offers a tangy kick.
• Dijon mustard – 1 teaspoon: Provides depth and a slight heat.
• Honey – 1 teaspoon (optional): Balances the acidity in the dressing.

Equipment Needed

To make this red rice salad, you’ll need a few basic kitchen tools:

• Medium saucepan (for cooking the rice)
• Fine mesh sieve or colander
• Mixing bowl (for combining salad ingredients)
• Small bowl or jar (for mixing the dressing)
• Chopping board and knife
• Salad servers or spoons for tossing

Instructions to Make Mary Berry Red Rice Salad

Step 1: Cook the Red Rice

• Boil the rice: Rinse the red rice thoroughly and boil it in salted water according to package instructions (usually about 35-40 minutes). It should be tender yet slightly chewy.
• Drain and cool: Once cooked, drain and set aside to cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

• Chop the veggies: Dice the cucumber, peppers, and spring onions. Halve the cherry tomatoes and chop the parsley.
• Combine in a bowl: Add all the chopped vegetables to a large mixing bowl.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

• Whisk together: In a small bowl, mix olive oil, vinegar, mustard, and honey (if using). Whisk until well combined. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

• Mix everything: Add the cooled red rice to the vegetable mixture. Pour the dressing over and toss gently to coat.

Step 5: Chill Before Serving

• Refrigerate for 30 minutes: Let the salad rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

What Goes Well With Mary Berry Red Rice Salad

• Grilled chicken breast – Adds lean protein and complements the salad’s bold flavors.
• Roasted salmon fillet – A hearty pairing that balances the tangy dressing.
• Cold meats or charcuterie – Ideal for picnic spreads or lunch boxes.
• Crusty artisan bread – Perfect for soaking up the flavorful dressing.
• Greek yogurt with herbs – Adds a creamy and cooling element to the meal.
• Stuffed bell peppers – Create a colorful and healthy plate by serving them together.
• Falafel or chickpea patties – For a vegetarian-friendly pairing that’s full of protein.

Expert Tips for Making the Best Mary Berry Red Rice Salad

For a salad that’s not only tasty but also perfectly textured and balanced, keep these tips in mind:

• Don’t overcook the rice – Aim for a firm, al dente bite to prevent a mushy salad.
• Cool rice completely – Warm rice can wilt the vegetables and dull their crunch.
• Use fresh herbs generously – Parsley, mint, or dill can all enhance the flavor.
• Toss just before serving – Prevents sogginess and helps maintain texture.
• Adjust the seasoning – Don’t skip tasting and fine-tuning salt, pepper, and acidity.
• Store dressing separately for later – If prepping ahead, keep dressing separate until ready to serve.
• Add crunch right before eating – Toss in toasted nuts or seeds at the last minute to keep them crisp.

Easy Variations of Mary Berry Red Rice Salad

This salad can be adapted in many ways depending on what you have on hand:

• Switch the grain – Use brown rice, wild rice, or quinoa for variety.
• Add legumes – Toss in chickpeas or lentils for a protein boost.
• Include cheese – Feta, goat cheese, or halloumi, add creaminess and richness.
• Make it spicy – Add finely chopped red chili or a dash of chili flakes.
• Use different herbs – Swap parsley with mint or cilantro for a fresh twist.
• Add fruits – A handful of pomegranate seeds or diced apple adds a sweet contrast.

Best Practices to Store Mary Berry Red Rice Salad

Follow these storage tips to keep the salad fresh and safe:

• Refrigerate immediately – Store in an airtight container in the fridge within two hours of preparation.
• Keep dressing separate – If making in advance, keep the dressing apart to maintain texture.
• Use within 3 days – Best enjoyed fresh, but it can be safely stored for up to three days.
• Avoid freezing – This salad doesn’t freeze well due to the fresh vegetables and rice texture.
• Label with date – Always mark the container with the prep date for food safety.

Best Practices to Reheat Mary Berry Red Rice Salad

This salad is best served cold or at room temperature, but if you prefer it slightly warm:

• Microwave gently – Warm in short bursts (30 seconds) to avoid overheating the vegetables.
• Stir halfway – Ensures even reheating without overcooking parts of the salad.
• Avoid overheating – High heat can make the rice mushy and the vegetables limp.
• Add a splash of dressing – If reheated, refresh with a little extra vinaigrette before serving.

How Can I Make Mary Berry Red Rice Salad Healthier?

• Reduce oil in dressing – Cut back to 1-2 tablespoons or use yogurt-based dressings.
• Add more greens – Mix in spinach, kale, or arugula for added fiber.
• Swap honey for date syrup – A natural, lower-glycemic alternative.
• Use low-sodium options – Be mindful of added salt and use fresh ingredients.
• Include more raw veggies – Load up with grated carrots, radishes, or shredded cabbage.

Nutrition Value (per serving):

• Calories: 280
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 11g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 120mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on ingredient choices.

FAQs

How long does it take to cook red rice for this salad?

Red rice typically takes about 35 to 40 minutes to cook until it’s tender but still firm. Be sure to rinse the rice thoroughly before boiling and avoid overcooking to maintain a slightly chewy texture.

Should red rice be soaked before cooking for the salad?

Soaking red rice for 30 minutes before boiling can reduce cooking time and help the grains cook more evenly. However, it’s optional and not mandatory for this salad.

Can I prepare Mary Berry Red Rice Salad in advance?

Yes, you can prepare this salad up to 2 days in advance. Keep the dressing separate and toss everything together just before serving to preserve the texture and freshness.

How do I prevent the salad from becoming soggy?

Let the red rice cool completely before mixing with vegetables, and avoid adding the dressing too early. Combine all components just before serving for the best texture.

Final Words

This Mary Berry Red Rice Salad Recipe is a refreshing and nourishing option that doesn’t compromise on flavor or satisfaction. It’s easy to customize, ideal for make-ahead meals, and perfect for both casual and special occasions. With its wholesome ingredients and bright presentation, this dish earns a spot in your regular rotation. Try it once, and you’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again.

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