Fast and Festive Rice Salad

As we've officially reached the "holy cow it's crazy busy" season, I'm happy to share this quick and healthy side dish from Mizkan using Nakano natural rice vinegar!  Aren't we all looking for fast and easy side dishes this time of year, something a little different than mashed potatoes and green bean casserole?  This salad is done in the time it takes the rice to cook, and is even better if you make it a day or two ahead, which is great when there are always other things you could be doing, right?

I should also add that this dressing is a favorite with my girls - so we make it for "everyday" salads as well, the kind with lettuce as the main ingredient rather than rice...and as a dipping sauce for vegetables and chicken tenders, etc.

Check out the Mizkan recipe site for the original recipe. My variation is included below.

Fast and Festive Rice Salad

4 cups brown rice
(make according to package instructions, and while it is cooking, prepare the remaining ingredients)
1/4 cup Nakano natural rice vinegar
2 Tablespoons vegetable oil
2 teaspoons dijon or honey mustard
1 large fiji apple, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1/4 cup of dried cranberries
1/2 cup of nuts of your choice, I prefer pine nuts or chopped almonds
1/4 cup of diced onion (green onion would be great as well)

Mix the vinegar, oil and mustard. Add apple to keep from browning. Toss the dressing, vegetables and rice once the rice has cooled.  Chill and serve, or prepare a day or two in advance and refrigerate. Yum!

I was supplied with vinegar and compensated for my time, but as always, ideas and opinions are my own.