Watercress and Forbidden Rice Salad Recipe

This watercress and forbidden rice salad recipe is refreshing, and is perfect if you're looking for a new twist on a traditional salad. This dish consists of a wonderful blend of tastes and textures from the peppery watercress, crunchy bell pepper and celery, to the slightly nutty and chewy black rice, also known as forbidden rice. The ginger vinaigrette adds a touch of Asian-inspired flavor, making this a truly unique salad.

Photos of Watercress and Forbidden Rice Salad Recipe

The star of this recipe, forbidden rice, also known as black rice, might be a bit tricky to find in standard supermarkets. It's a type of whole-grain rice that is less commonly used but is packed with antioxidants and fiber. It's worth the hunt, and you can often find it in health food stores or Asian markets. If you can't find it, you can substitute with a dark wild rice. Watercress is a leafy vegetable that is often overlooked but adds a fresh, peppery flavor to recipes. Look for it in the fresh produce section.

Ingredients for Watercress and Forbidden Rice Salad

Ginger: A root used in cooking for its zesty, spicy flavor.

Garlic: Adds a savory taste.

Rice wine vinegar: Gives a tangy, slightly sweet flavor.

Peanut oil: Used for its mild flavor and high smoke point.

Toasted sesame oil: Adds a rich, nutty flavor.

Tamari: A gluten-free alternative to soy sauce.

Agave nectar: A natural sweetener made from the agave plant.

Red pepper flakes: Adds a spicy kick.

Watercress: A leafy green with a peppery flavor.

Bell pepper: Adds a sweet, crunchy element.

Celery: Provides a crunchy texture.

Green onion: Gives a mild onion flavor.

Edamame: A type of soybean that's a great source of protein.

Forbidden rice: A black-colored rice with a slightly nutty flavor.

One reader, Cristy Lentz says:

This watercress and forbidden rice salad recipe is a game-changer! The combination of flavors and textures is simply divine. The ginger vinaigrette adds a zesty kick, and the forbidden rice gives it a unique twist. It's a refreshing and satisfying dish that's perfect for a healthy, flavorful meal. Highly recommended!

Cristy Lentz

Mastering the Techniques for a Perfect Salad

How to prepare ginger vinaigrette: Whisk together ginger, garlic, rice wine vinegar, peanut oil, sesame oil, tamari, agave nectar, and red pepper flakes. Set aside.

How to cook forbidden rice: Rinse the rice in a mesh colander, then cook it in a rice cooker according to the manufacturer’s instructions using ¾ cup rice to 1½ cup water. Fluff with a fork and allow to cool for 10 minutes.

How to cook edamame: Bring a pot of water to a boil, then add the frozen edamame. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until the edamame is warmed through. Drain and set aside to cool.

How to assemble the salad: Toss the watercress, bell pepper, celery, and green onion in a large bowl. Add the edamame and rice to the bowl, then toss. Whisk the dressing one more time, pour it into the bowl, then toss well. Serve and enjoy!

How To Make Watercress and Forbidden Rice Salad

Our forbidden rice salad is loaded with protein and nutritious watercress for a heartier meal! Whip up a bowl of this in just under one hour.

Preparation: 50 minutes

Cooking:

Total: 50 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Ginger Vinaigrette:

ginger,1-inch nub, grated or finely chopped
3garlic cloves,pressed
2tbsprice wine vinegar
¼cuppeanut oil,quality, olive oil or vegetable oil
2tsptoasted sesame oil
2½tsptamari,reduced-sodium, or soy sauce
½tspagave nectar
red pepper flakes,a big pinch

For Salad:

watercress,1 bunch, very roughly chopped
1bell pepper,yellow or orange chopped
3celery stalks,thinly sliced and roughly chopped
¼cupgreen onion,chopped, include both white and green parts
1½cupsedamame,shelled, used frozen
1½cupsforbidden rice,or wild rice

Instructions

Ginger Vinaigrette:

Whisk the ginger, garlic, rice wine vinegar, peanut oil, sesame oil, tamari, agave nectar, and red pepper flakes together well. Set it aside.

Salad:

Rinse the rice in a mesh colander, then cook it in a rice cooker, according to manufacturer’s instructions using ¾ cup rice to 1½ cup water.
Fluff with a fork, then allow to cool for 10 minutes.
Bring a pot of water to a boil, then pour in the frozen edamame.
Reduce the heat to a simmer, then cook for 4 to 5 minutes until the edamame is warmed through.
Drain, and set the edamame aside to cool.
Toss the watercress, bell pepper, celery, and green onion in a big bowl.
Add the edamame and rice to the bowl, then toss.
Whisk the dressing one more time, pour them into the bowl, then toss well.
Serve, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 632.88kcal
Fat: 26.60g
Saturated Fat: 4.02g
Monounsaturated Fat: 10.46g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 8.01g
Carbohydrates: 84.77g
Fiber: 8.03g
Sugar: 4.89g
Protein: 14.81g
Sodium: 323.00mg
Calcium: 99.46mg
Potassium: 795.92mg
Iron: 3.54mg
Vitamin A: 75.24µg
Vitamin C: 60.40mg

Pro Tip: Elevate Your Salad Game with This Technique

When making the ginger vinaigrette, it's important to whisk the ingredients together until they're well combined. This emulsifies the dressing, creating a smooth and creamy texture that will coat the salad ingredients evenly. Additionally, when cooking the forbidden rice, make sure to rinse it thoroughly before cooking to remove any excess starch. This will help the grains stay separate and prevent them from becoming sticky. Lastly, when adding the dressing to the salad, do it gradually. This way, you can control the amount of dressing in the salad and prevent it from becoming too soggy.

Time-Saving Hacks for Preparing This Salad Recipe

Prep ahead: Prepare the ginger vinaigrette and cook the forbidden rice and edamame in advance to save time when assembling the salad.

Multi-task: While the rice is cooking, you can prepare the ginger vinaigrette and chop the vegetables to maximize efficiency.

Use pre-shelled edamame: Opt for pre-shelled edamame to save time on shelling them yourself, making the preparation process quicker and more convenient.

Invest in a rice cooker: Using a rice cooker to prepare the forbidden rice can save time and ensure perfectly cooked rice without needing constant attention.

Substitute Ingredients For Watercress and Forbidden Rice Salad Recipe

watercress - Substitute with arugula: Arugula has a similar peppery flavor and a slightly bitter taste, making it a suitable replacement for watercress in salads.
forbidden rice - Substitute with black rice: Black rice has a similar nutty flavor and chewy texture, making it a good alternative to forbidden rice in the salad recipe.

Presentation Tips for a Stunning Salad

Elevate the plating: When presenting the watercress and forbidden rice salad, focus on creating a visually stunning plate. Use edible flowers and microgreens to add pops of color and texture to the dish.
Incorporate height and layers: Build the salad on the plate with attention to height and layers. Use a ring mold to create a compact base of forbidden rice, then layer the watercress, bell pepper, and celery to create a visually appealing and structured presentation.
Artful drizzling of ginger vinaigrette: Instead of simply tossing the salad with the vinaigrette, drizzle it artfully over the salad using a squeeze bottle or spoon. This adds a touch of elegance and precision to the plating.
Garnish with toasted sesame seeds: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the salad just before serving to add a nutty flavor and a delightful crunch. This garnish also adds a sophisticated touch to the presentation.
Use elegant serving ware: Choose elegant and refined serving ware to present the salad. Consider using chic ceramic plates or sleek glass bowls to showcase the vibrant colors and textures of the dish.
Attention to negative space: Pay attention to negative space on the plate, allowing the salad to be the focal point. Embrace the beauty of simplicity and avoid overcrowding the plate with unnecessary elements.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making This Salad

Rice cooker: A rice cooker is a convenient appliance for cooking rice. It automates the process and ensures perfectly cooked rice every time.
Mesh colander: A mesh colander is a bowl-shaped kitchen tool with small holes that allow liquids to drain through while retaining the solids.
Pot: A pot is a versatile kitchen tool used for boiling, simmering, and cooking various ingredients.
Rice cooker: A rice cooker is a convenient appliance for cooking rice. It automates the process and ensures perfectly cooked rice every time.
Whisk: A whisk is a kitchen utensil used for blending ingredients together and incorporating air into mixtures.
Cutting board: A cutting board provides a stable surface for chopping, slicing, and preparing ingredients.
Knife: A knife is an essential tool for cutting, slicing, and chopping ingredients during food preparation.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is used for combining and mixing ingredients together during the preparation of recipes.
Pot: A pot is a versatile kitchen tool used for boiling, simmering, and cooking various ingredients.
Colander: A colander is a bowl-shaped kitchen tool with perforations or small holes used to drain liquids from food items such as pasta or vegetables.

Storing and Freezing Tips for Salad Ingredients

This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The watercress may start to wilt after a day or two, but the salad will still be delicious.
If you want to prepare the salad in advance, store the dressing separately from the other ingredients. Toss the salad with the dressing just before serving to keep the watercress and other vegetables crisp and fresh.
The forbidden rice can be cooked ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It's a great idea to make a large batch of rice and use it in various recipes throughout the week.
While it's not recommended to freeze the entire assembled salad, you can freeze the cooked forbidden rice for up to 3 months. Allow the rice to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. When ready to use, thaw the rice in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water.
The ginger vinaigrette can be stored in a jar or airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. The flavors will meld together over time, making the dressing even more delicious. Give the dressing a good shake or whisk before using it on the salad.

Reheating Leftover Salad: Dos and Don'ts

The best way to reheat leftover watercress and forbidden rice salad is to place it in a microwave-safe bowl and heat it in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it's heated through. This method will help to retain the texture and flavor of the rice and vegetables.
Another option is to reheat the salad in a skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of peanut oil or sesame oil to the skillet and stir the salad constantly until it's heated through. This method will give the rice a slightly crispy texture and enhance the flavors of the ginger vinaigrette.
If you prefer a cold salad, you can simply remove the leftover salad from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld together and the rice to soften slightly.
To freshen up the leftover salad, you can add some fresh watercress, chopped bell pepper, and sliced green onion before reheating or serving. This will add a nice crunch and some bright, fresh flavors to the dish.
If the ginger vinaigrette has separated or lost some of its flavor, you can whisk it together again and add a small amount of fresh rice wine vinegar, tamari, or sesame oil to taste. This will help to revive the dressing and make the salad taste just as good as when it was first made.

Surprising Fact About Watercress and Forbidden Rice

Forbidden rice is also known as black rice, and it was once reserved exclusively for Chinese emperors due to its rarity and health benefits. It is rich in antioxidants and contains more fiber and protein than white rice, making it a nutritious addition to any meal.

Budget-Friendly: Is This Salad Economical to Make at Home?

The cost-effectiveness of this watercress and forbidden rice salad recipe is quite high. The ingredients, such as edamame, forbidden rice, and watercress, are nutritious and affordable. The use of ginger and garlic in the vinaigrette adds depth of flavor without breaking the bank. Overall, this recipe rates a solid 9 out of 10 for cost-effectiveness. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15, making it a budget-friendly and nutritious option.

Is This Salad Recipe Healthy?

This watercress and forbidden rice salad recipe is quite healthy overall. Here's why:

Watercress is a nutrient-dense leafy green packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants and minerals.
Forbidden rice, also known as black rice, is rich in fiber, protein, and antioxidants like anthocyanins.
The salad includes a variety of vegetables like bell pepper, celery, and green onion, providing a range of vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
Edamame is a good source of plant-based protein and fiber.
The ginger vinaigrette uses healthy ingredients like ginger, garlic, rice wine vinegar, and sesame oil, which offer anti-inflammatory properties and heart-healthy fats.

However, there are a few areas where the recipe could be improved:

The peanut oil in the dressing is high in omega-6 fatty acids, which can be inflammatory when consumed in excess. Consider replacing some or all of the peanut oil with extra virgin olive oil, which is rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants.
To boost the nutrient content even further, you could add some additional vegetables to the salad, such as:
- Shredded carrots for extra vitamin A and fiber
- Sliced radishes for a spicy kick and vitamin C
- Chopped cucumber for hydration and vitamin K
If you're looking to reduce the carbohydrate content, you could replace some of the forbidden rice with cauliflower rice or quinoa for a lower-carb, higher-protein option.
To make the salad more satiating and balanced, consider adding a source of lean protein like grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu.

Editor's Take: My Honest Opinion on This Salad

The watercress and forbidden rice salad recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. The ginger vinaigrette adds a zesty kick, complementing the earthy nuttiness of the forbidden rice and the crisp freshness of the watercress. The edamame provides a pop of color and a satisfying bite, while the bell pepper and celery add a refreshing crunch. Overall, this salad is a harmonious blend of ingredients that offers a satisfying and nutritious dining experience.

Enhance Your Watercress and Forbidden Rice Salad Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of roasted garlic, perfect for pairing with the watercress and forbidden rice salad.

Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Tender asparagus grilled to perfection and topped with a sprinkle of fresh lemon zest, a refreshing side to accompany the main dish.

Honey Glazed Carrots with Thyme: Sweet and savory carrots glazed with honey and a touch of thyme, adding a burst of flavor to your meal.

Similar Salad Recipes to Try

Spicy Thai Basil Chicken: This dish is a flavorful and aromatic stir-fry that combines tender chicken with fresh Thai basil and spicy chili peppers. It's a perfect balance of heat and savory flavors.

Mango Avocado Salsa: This refreshing salsa combines sweet mango, creamy avocado, and zesty lime juice for a perfect balance of flavors. It's a great accompaniment to grilled fish or as a topping for tacos.

Butternut Squash Soup: This creamy and comforting soup is made with roasted butternut squash, aromatic spices, and a touch of cream. It's the perfect dish for a cozy night in during the fall or winter months.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Watercress and Forbidden Rice Salad

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a flavorful mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs. Bake until golden and crispy for a delicious start to any meal.

Bruschetta: Serve up a classic Italian appetizer by topping crispy slices of toasted baguette with a fresh and vibrant mixture of diced tomatoes, garlic, basil, and olive oil. This light and refreshing dish is the perfect way to kick off a dinner party or gathering.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder for an elegant and decadent dessert experience.

Berry Parfait: Layer juicy mixed berries with creamy Greek yogurt and crunchy granola for a refreshing and satisfying parfait that's perfect for a light and healthy dessert option.

Why trust this Watercress and Forbidden Rice Salad Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, creating a vibrant and satisfying dish. The ginger vinaigrette infuses the salad with a zesty kick, while the watercress adds a refreshing and peppery note. The addition of forbidden rice brings a nutty and chewy element, complemented by the crunch of bell pepper and celery. The edamame contributes a protein-packed boost, making this salad a wholesome and balanced meal. With the use of high-quality ingredients such as rice wine vinegar and toasted sesame oil, this recipe promises a delightful culinary experience.

Share your thoughts on the Watercress and Forbidden Rice Salad Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section.

FAQ:

What is forbidden rice and where can I find it?

Forbidden rice, also known as black rice, is a type of rice that has a deep black color and a nutty flavor. It is often used in Asian cuisine and is rich in antioxidants. You can find forbidden rice in the rice or specialty foods section of most grocery stores, health food stores, or online.

Can I make the ginger vinaigrette ahead of time?

Yes, you can definitely make the ginger vinaigrette ahead of time. In fact, allowing the flavors to meld together for a few hours or overnight can enhance the taste. Store the vinaigrette in an airtight container in the refrigerator and give it a good shake before using.

Can I substitute the watercress with another type of greens?

Absolutely! If you can't find watercress, you can substitute it with arugula, baby spinach, or mixed salad greens. Each of these options will bring a slightly different flavor to the salad, but they will all work well with the other ingredients.

Is there a way to make this salad gluten-free?

Yes, this salad can easily be made gluten-free. Simply ensure that the tamari you use is gluten-free, as some brands may contain wheat. Tamari is a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce and provides a savory, umami flavor to the vinaigrette.

Can I add protein to this salad to make it a complete meal?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken, tofu, shrimp, or even thinly sliced steak would be fantastic additions to this salad. You can customize it to your liking and dietary preferences by adding your favorite protein.