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Quick Indian-Inspired Pineapple Almond Rice Salad

Discover a refreshing twist on traditional rice salads with our Indian-Style Pineapple Almond Rice Salad. This mouthwatering dish combines sweet pineapple, crunchy almonds, and fragrant spices for a delightful and nutritious meal that can be served as a main dish or a side for your next barbecue.

What do we need for our Indian-Inspired Pineapple Almond Rice Salad?

FOR 2 PORTIONS

Salad

100 g basmati rice
200 ml water
1/4 teaspoon salt
100 g fresh pineapple chunks
25 g sliced almonds
1/2 small red onion, finely chopped
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 small handful fresh cilantro, chopped
1 small handful fresh mint, chopped
25 g raisins
1/2 green chili, finely chopped (optional)

dressing

1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon lime juice
1/2 tablespoon honey
1/2 tablespoon plain yogurt
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/4 teaspoon ground coriander
1/4 teaspoon garam masala
1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
Salt and pepper to taste

How do we make our Indian-Inspired Pineapple Almond Rice Salad?

Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
In a medium saucepan, bring the water and salt to a boil. Add the rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed.
Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and let it cool.
In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the sliced almonds until they are golden brown and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent burning. Remove from heat and let them cool.
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, honey, plain yogurt, ground cumin, ground coriander, garam masala, turmeric, salt, and pepper until well combined.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, pineapple chunks, toasted almonds, red onion, bell pepper, cilantro, mint, raisins, and green chili (if using).
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine all the ingredients evenly.
Serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This salad can be served chilled or at room temperature.

Mmmhhh..with its delightful mix of sweet pineapple, crunchy almonds, and aromatic spices, this salad has become a favourite at our table in the blink of an eye! We like to serve it with some grilled Halloumi cheese or our marinated Teriyaki Chicken Skewers. 🤤