Tomato Cucumber Rice Salad

This delightful dish combines refreshing ingredients with a creamy dressing to create a delicious and satisfying salad. The blend of ripe tomatoes and crisp cucumbers with aromatic herbs brings a burst of flavors and colors to the table. The addition of rice provides substance to the salad, making it a substantial side dish or a light main course. The tangy sour cream dressing binds everything together, ensuring that every bite is flavorful. Not only is this salad nutritious, but it's also quick to prepare, taking only about 15 minutes. It's a versatile recipe that can be adjusted easily to fit various taste preferences and dietary needs. You'll find it perfect for summer picnics, family gatherings, or as a refreshing dish any time of the year. With its mix of textures and tastes, this salad is sure to be a favorite on your menu. Pair it with grilled meats or fish for a complete meal experience.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 100 g tomatoes
• 30 g fresh cucumbers
• 15 g rice
• 50 g sour cream

Herbs and Spices:

• Fresh herbs (dill, green onion, parsley)
• Salt
• Pepper

Preparation Time

Total Time: Approximately 15 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Start by **washing the tomatoes** and cucumbers thoroughly. Pat them dry with a paper towel.
2. **Dice the tomatoes** into bite-sized pieces. Similarly, chop the cucumbers into small cubes to match the tomatoes' size.
3. **Cook the rice** according to package instructions, ensuring it's fluffy and not clumpy.
4. **Allow the rice to cool** slightly before adding it to the salad bowl.
5. In a large mixing bowl, **combine the tomatoes, cucumbers, and rice**. Stir gently to mix the ingredients evenly.
6. **Finely chop the dill, green onion, and parsley**, adding them to the bowl for an added layer of freshness.
7. **Season with salt** and pepper to taste, ensuring you blend the flavors well throughout the salad.
8. Add the **sour cream to the mixture**, stirring gently to ensure every ingredient is coated.
9. If you prefer a creamier texture, feel free to add a little more sour cream as needed.
10. Taste the salad, and **adjust the seasoning** if necessary, checking for perfect balance in flavors.
11. **Let the salad rest** for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
12. **Transfer the salad** to a serving bowl or individual plates, depending on your presentation preference.
13. **Garnish with additional herbs** on top for a bright and appealing look.
14. Consider adding a **squeeze of lemon juice** for a tangy twist if desired.
15. For added texture, consider tossing in some **toasted nuts or seeds**.
16. Serve the salad immediately, or **chill it in the refrigerator** for a more refreshing experience.
17. **Enjoy this salad** as a standalone dish or as a side to complement a main course.

Tips

• For a richer taste, substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt.
• Use brown rice for a healthier, whole-grain option.
• Add feta cheese for a Mediterranean flair.

Nutrition

• Calories: Approximately 120
• Protein: 3 g
• Fat: 4 g
• Carbohydrates: 17 g

Variations

• Vegan Version: Swap the sour cream with a dairy-free alternative such as coconut yogurt.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red chili flakes or diced jalapeños for some heat.
• Low-carb: Replace the rice with cauliflower rice for a lighter version.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with grilled salmon or chicken for a complete meal.
• Garnish with lemon wedges for added zest and presentation.
• Serve alongside a crusty baguette for a satisfying lunch.

Best Places

• Zuni Café - A famous spot known for its creative salads. Location: 1658 Market Street, San Francisco, USA.
• Novikov Restaurant & Bar - Offers modern interpretations of classic salads. Location: 50A Berkeley Street, London, UK.
• Chez Panisse Café - Renowned for using fresh, local ingredients in its dishes. Location: 1517 Shattuck Avenue, Berkeley, USA.
• Pizza Express Jazz Club - Known for its lively atmosphere and delightful salads. Location: 10 Dean Street, London, UK.
• Barbuto - A popular choice for rustic Italian fare and fresh salads. Location: 113 Horatio Street, New York, USA.
• Jones the Grocer - Offers gourmet, health-focused cuisine. Location: Al Manara Area, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, UAE.
• THE FARM - Features organic ingredients in its diverse menu. Location: Al Barari, Dubai, UAE.
• Agrarian Kitchen Eatery - Celebrated for its sustainability practices. Location: 11a The Avenue, New Norfolk, Tasmania, Australia.
• MoVida - Acclaimed for Spanish-inspired offerings. Location: 1 Hosier Lane, Melbourne, Australia.
• Mule Fisherman - A cozy spot known for its hearty, grilled meals. Location: 1750 Alki Ave SW, Seattle, USA.