Mediterranean Rice Salad (great side with chicken)

Serves: 6-8

This rice salad has wonderful flavors and your recipients will appreciate the great freshness and nutrients of this healthy side meal.

You will want to start this rice first and then move onto your entrée as it takes a little time to boil and then cool.

Meditteranean Rice Salad- Cook's Country

Ingredients:

• 1 cup basmati rice or other long grain rice
• salt
• 2 1/2 tbs lemon juice
• 1 tsp grated zest plus 2 TB juice from 1 orange
• 1/4 c extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/2 tsp group cinammon
• pepper
• 4 scallions, chopped fine (or onion if need be)
• 3/4 c chopped raisins ( or dates, currants)
• 3/4 c chopped pistachios (or sliced almonds) toasted
• 1/4 chopped fresh parsley

Directions:

1. Bring 4 quarts water to biol in a large pot. Meanwhile toast rice in medium skillet over medium hear, stirring frequently, until faintly fragrant and some grains turn opaque, about 8 minutes.

2. Add 1 1/2 tsp salt and toasted rice to boiling water. Return to boil and cook, uncovered, until rice is tender, 8-11 minutes. Drain rice, spread on rimmed baking sheet and cool completely at least 20 minutes. Transfer cooled rice to serving bowl.

3. Whisk together lemon juice, orange zest and juice, oil, cinnamon, and salt and pepper to taste in bowl. Add scallions, raisins, pistachios, parsley and dressing to bowl with rice and toss to combine. Adjust seasonings and let stand until flavors blend, about 20 minutes. (Salad can be covered and refrigerated for up to 1 day. Bring back to room temperature before serving.)