Brown Rice Salad with Avocado and Lime is a refreshing, wholesome, and nutrient-dense dish that brings together the hearty texture of brown rice, the creaminess of ripe avocado, and the bright zing of fresh lime. This salad is a perfect blend of satisfying grains, crisp vegetables, healthy fats, and zesty flavors, making it ideal as a light lunch, a flavorful side dish, or a filling dinner option. The dish is naturally gluten-free, vegan-friendly, and packed with fiber and essential nutrients. Whether you enjoy it warm, chilled, or at room temperature, every bite offers a delicious combination of freshness and richness.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it is simple, refreshing, and incredibly versatile. The nuttiness of brown rice pairs wonderfully with the creaminess of avocado and the brightness of lime. It’s one of those salads that feels light yet satisfying, making it perfect for meal prep or quick weeknight meals. It’s packed with nutrients and tastes even better as the flavors meld over time.
Why It’s a Must-Try Dish
This salad is a must-try because it is wholesome, energizing, and bursting with natural flavors. It offers a balanced combination of complex carbohydrates, healthy fats, and fresh vegetables, making it ideal for health-conscious eaters. It’s easy to customize, great for taking on the go, and pairs beautifully with many proteins like grilled chicken, tofu, or seafood. Its refreshing taste makes it suitable for any season.
Recipe Details
Preparation Time : 20 minutes
Cooking Time : 35–40 minutes (for the brown rice)
Servings : 4 servings
Calories :Approximately 360 calories per serving
Course : Main dish or side dish
Cuisine :Modern fusion / Healthy cuisine
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 1 cup uncooked brown rice
- 2 1/4 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1 large ripe avocado, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup corn kernels (fresh or thawed frozen, optional)
- 1 jalapeño, minced (optional for heat)
For the Lime Dressing
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin (optional)
Cooking Directions
- Cook the brown rice using water or broth and allow it to cool slightly.
- Chop all vegetables and herbs.
- Whisk together all dressing ingredients.
- Combine brown rice, avocado, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, cilantro, corn, and jalapeño in a bowl.
- Pour the lime dressing over the salad and toss gently.
- Serve immediately or chill before serving.
Step-by-Step Preparation Method
Step 1: Cook the Brown Rice
Rinse the brown rice well. Add to a pot with water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 35–40 minutes, or until rice is tender. Let it cool to room temperature.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
Dice the avocado and cucumber, halve the cherry tomatoes, finely chop the onion, and chop the cilantro. Add corn and jalapeño if using.
Step 3: Make the Lime Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, lime zest, garlic, honey or maple syrup, cumin, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Step 4: Combine the Salad Ingredients
In a large bowl, add the cooled brown rice and all chopped vegetables and herbs. Add the avocado last to prevent mashing.
Step 5: Toss with Dressing
Pour the lime dressing over the mixture. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated. Taste for seasoning.
Step 6: Serve or Chill
Serve immediately or refrigerate for at least 20 minutes to let the flavors develop further.
How to Serve
Serve chilled or at room temperature with fresh lime wedges. This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, shrimp, tofu, or roasted vegetables. It also works well served inside lettuce wraps or alongside tortilla chips.
Recipe Tips
- Use freshly squeezed lime juice for the best flavor.
- Let the rice cool before mixing to prevent avocado from softening too quickly.
- Add the avocado just before serving to keep it fresh and vibrant.
- Broth adds extra flavor to the rice compared to water.
- For extra crunch, add toasted almonds, pepitas, or sunflower seeds.
Variations
Mexican-Inspired Brown Rice Salad
Add black beans, corn, cotija cheese, and a pinch of chili powder.
Mediterranean Version
Use parsley instead of cilantro and add olives, feta, and roasted red peppers.
Protein-Boosted Variation
Add grilled chicken, roasted chickpeas, tofu, or sautéed shrimp.
Spicy Lime Salad
Add extra jalapeño or drizzle with a little hot sauce for heat.
Greens-Enhanced Version
Mix in spinach, kale, or arugula for more volume and nutrients.
Freezing and Storage Time
Storage
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Add fresh avocado only when serving, as it browns quickly.
Freezing
Not recommended due to the fresh vegetables and avocado becoming mushy when thawed.
The cooked brown rice (by itself) can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Special Equipment Needed
- Medium saucepan for cooking rice
- Large mixing bowl
- Cutting board and sharp knife
- Small bowl for dressing
- Whisk
Conclusion
Brown Rice Salad with Avocado and Lime is a refreshing, nutritious, and versatile dish perfect for any meal. With its combination of hearty brown rice, vibrant vegetables, creamy avocado, and zesty lime dressing, it delivers a flavorful and satisfying experience. Easy to prepare, customizable, and ideal for meal prepping, this salad makes a wonderful addition to your weekly menu. Enjoy its freshness and wholesome goodness any time of the day.
Brown Rice Salad with Avocado and Lime
Description
Brown Rice Salad with Avocado and Lime is a refreshing, wholesome, and nutrient-dense dish that brings together the hearty texture of brown rice, the creaminess of ripe avocado, and the bright zing of fresh lime.
Ingredients
For the Salad
For the Lime Dressing
Instructions
-
Step 1: Cook the Brown Rice : Rinse the brown rice well. Add to a pot with water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 35–40 minutes, or until rice is tender. Let it cool to room temperature.
-
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
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: Dice the avocado and cucumber, halve the cherry tomatoes, finely chop the onion, and chop the cilantro. Add corn and jalapeño if using.
-
Step 3: Make the Lime Dressing : In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, lime zest, garlic, honey or maple syrup, cumin, salt, and pepper until well combined.
-
Step 4: Combine the Salad Ingredients : In a large bowl, add the cooled brown rice and all chopped vegetables and herbs. Add the avocado last to prevent mashing.
-
Step 5: Toss with Dressing : Pour the lime dressing over the mixture. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated. Taste for seasoning.
-
Step 6: Serve or Chill : Serve immediately or refrigerate for at least 20 minutes to let the flavors develop further.
