Bright, fresh, and irresistibly satisfying, this Cold Rice Mozzarella Ham Salad is the perfect dish for warm days or when you need a quick, make-ahead meal. Featuring fluffy, cooled rice as the base, this hearty salad is loaded with creamy mozzarella cubes, savory ham, crunchy red bell pepper, and refreshing cucumber. Tossed in a tangy olive oil and lemon dressing, and garnished with fragrant parsley, every bite is a delightful blend of textures and flavors. Ready in just 30 minutes of prep and cook time, this easy salad is ideal for lunch, picnics, or as a vibrant side dish for your next barbecue. Serve chilled for ultimate flavorβthis is a dish that embodies effortless summer dining at its finest!
Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a medium pot, combine the rice and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 15 minutes or until the water is absorbed. Remove from heat, fluff the rice with a fork, and let it cool completely.
While the rice is cooling, cut the mozzarella cheese and ham into small bite-sized cubes. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
Dice the red bell pepper and cucumber into small pieces. Chop the green onion finely. Add all the vegetables to the mixing bowl.
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper to make the dressing.
Once the rice has cooled to room temperature, add it to the mixing bowl with the other ingredients. Pour the dressing over the top and toss everything together until evenly combined.
Chop the fresh parsley finely and sprinkle it over the salad for garnish.
Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
Serve cold as a light meal or side dish. Enjoy!
Calories |
1494 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 88.8 g | 114% | |
| Saturated Fat | 33.8 g | 169% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 9.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 170 mg | 57% | |
| Sodium | 4230 mg | 184% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 101.2 g | 37% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 9.2 g | 33% | |
| Total Sugars | 14.7 g | ||
| Protein | 73.4 g | 147% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.1 mcg | 6% | |
| Calcium | 1715 mg | 132% | |
| Iron | 5.7 mg | 32% | |
| Potassium | 1653 mg | 35% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.