Tasty Ensalada de Arroz (rice salad)

This cold rice salad is a modem variation on traditional Spanish ingredients. It is easy, inexpensive, delicious and infinitely versatile. I love to surprise my family and friends with this salad because is different.

Ingredients

• 1 cup converted rice
• 1 tsp. salt
• 8 Tbsp. olive oil
• 3 Tbsp. wine vinegar
• 1 large clove garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, minced
• salt and pepper
• 1 4-oz. jar whole pimentos
• 2 Tbsp. chopped parsley
• Green and black olives for garnish

Method

1. Bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add salt and rice; cover and cook slowly 20 minutes or until rice is just tender. While the rice is cooking, make vinaigrette sauce by combining the olive oil, vinegar, garlic, and onion. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
2. Drain the pimentos. Cut 6 narrow strips and set them aside. Finely chop the remaining pimentos. Cool the rice slightly. Add the vinaigrette sauce, chopped pimento and parsley. Toss gently
3. Spoon rice into serving bowl. When cool, cover and chill thoroughly. Decorate the top with the reserved pimento strips and olives.

(Source: xmission.com)