Gut Healthy Apricot and Rice Salad with Cucumber, Peppers

Did you know that apricots have been cultivated in China for thousands of years, dating back to 2000 BC? They've since become a beloved ingredient in Middle Eastern cuisine. Their unique tart and tangy flavor pairs wonderfully with brown rice, creating a simple yet delicious salad. Adding sherry vinegar enhances the rice's nutty essence. For convenience, opt for dried apricots ready to cook without soaking, and choose easy-cooked rice for a hassle-free preparation experience.

Serves: 4-6, Preparation time: 10 mins, Standing time: 1 hr, Cooking time: 30 mins

When you're all set to start cooking, make sure your kitchen counter is packed with all the essentials

Ingredients:

🌾 8oz (225g) long grain brown rice

🌶️ 1 yellow or red pepper

🍑 8oz (225g) dried apricots

🥒 4in (100mm) piece of cucumber

🎃 3oz (75g) pumpkin seeds

🍑 2 fresh apricots

🌿 Sprigs of parsley for garnish

DRESSING:

🌻 3 tablespoons Grapeseed or sunflower oil or Olive Oil

🍷 1.5 tablespoons sherry vinegar or Fresh Lime

🌾 1 teaspoon grainy mustard

🧂 Freshly ground black pepper

Cooking Notes:

• Cook the rice according to the instructions on the package.

• While the rice is cooking, mix the dressing ingredients in a separate bowl.

• Once the rice is cooked, drain it and transfer it to a large mixing bowl.

• Pour the dressing over the rice and mix well to combine.

• Allow the rice to cool for about an hour.

• While the rice is cooling, prepare the vegetables:

• Halve the pepper, remove the seeds, and cut it into thin strips about 2 inches long.

• Roughly chop the dried apricots.

• Dice the cucumber into small cubes, approximately half an inch in size.

• Once the rice has cooled, add the prepared vegetables and pumpkin seeds to the bowl with the rice.

• Mix everything until well combined.

• Season with salt and pepper to taste.

• Garnish with fresh parsley sprigs before serving. Enjoy your delicious apricot and rice salad!

Calories per serving: 490 High in dietary fiber from apricots, iron from apricots and rice.

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