| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 20 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 340 | 18g | 2.5g | 44g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 13g | 6g | 5g | 200mg |
If you ask me what’s one dish I can’t forget to mention while talking about my love for melting pot recipes, the Rice Paddy Herb Salad with Mango and Avocado undeniably steals the show. Tangible proof of the diverse flavors you can create with simple, fresh ingredients – this fruity, healthy salad has been a non-negotiable part of my chopping board for years.
A Melting Pot of Flavors, Right in Your Bowl
Living in the heart of New York City, I am lucky enough to witness a multitude of cultures, foods, and cooking styles. And this Rice Paddy Herb Salad with Mango and Avocado is a perfect example of the city’s vibrant gastronomic scene. Each component, from the aromatic rice paddy herbs to the sweet mango and creamy avocado, brings a unique characteristic to the table, harmoniously coming together in an unforgettably delicious experience.
The Perks on Your Plate
This bright, succulent salad is not just a feast for the taste buds but also a boon for your health. Mangoes are full of antioxidants and an excellent source of vitamin C, essential for boosting your immune system (source). The creamy avocados, on the other hand, provide your body with healthy fats and fiber, assisting in maintaining a healthy heart (source).
What’s more, enveloping these fruits are the beneficial properties of the rice paddy herb, long-grain white rice, and extra virgin olive oil, which blend perfectly while also promoting good health.
A Menu Star
While this refreshing salad stands out on its own, it’s also the perfect side to pair with various meals if you’re looking to elevate your dining experience. Consider it with a pan-grilled fish, or a tangy barbeque for a complementing flavor-profile. And if you are a fan of Thai cuisine, this will remind you of the traditional ‘Som Tam’ or Green Mango Salad, accentuated by a delightful creaminess of avocado.
Simply put, the Rice Paddy Herb Salad with Mango and Avocado is a culinary love letter to the diversity and energy of New York City, composed of bright, contrasting flavors that somehow fit together beautifully. To me, this dish presents the same vibrancy, community, and connection that makes the ‘Big Apple’ a city unlike any other. And I hope this salad captures a piece of that magic on your plate, too.
What You’ll Need
- 1 cup of Long-Grain White Rice
- 2 cups of Water
- 1/2 teaspoon of Salt
- 1 cup of packed Rice Paddy Herbs leaves, roughly chopped
- 2 ripe Mangos, peeled and cut into small pieces
- 2 ripe Avocados, peeled and cut into small pieces
- 1/2 cup of Red Onion, finely chopped
- 1 Red Bell Peppers, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup of Lime Juice
- 1/4 cup of Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- Salt and Black Pepper to taste
Method
Step One
Start by cooking the long-grain white rice. Use a medium saucepan and add the 1 cup of rice, 2 cups of water, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then lower the heat to simmer, cover, and let it cook for 15-20 minutes until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed.
Step Two
While the rice is cooking, begin preparing the rest of the ingredients. Start with the rice paddy herbs, mangos, and avocados. Roughly chop 1 cup of rice paddy herb leaves and set them aside. Then, peel and cut the 2 ripe mangos and the 2 ripe avocados into small pieces. Set these aside as well.
Step Three
Take your red onion and red bell peppers, finely chop these ingredients and set them aside.
Step Four
Put together the dressing in a separate small bowl. Mix 1/4 cup of lime juice, 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil, and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir well until all the ingredients are well combined.
Step Five
By now, the rice should be done. Transfer the cooked rice to a large salad bowl. Allow it to cool slightly.
Step Six
After the rice has cooled, add the chopped rice paddy herbs, mangoes, avocados, red onion, and red bell peppers to the bowl. Pour the prepared dressing over the top.
Step Seven
Toss all the ingredients together until they are well mixed and evenly coated with the dressing. Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Step Eight
Now your Rice Paddy Herb Salad with Mango and Avocado is ready to serve! Enjoy it as a light meal or as a delicious side dish to your favorite main course.
