Moroccan Rice and Chicken Salad
Ingredients
- 2 cups Carolina® Basmati Rice
- 1 tsp saffron threads
- 4 tsp harissa paste
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp garlic, minced
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
- 3 tsp ground cumin
- 1 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh mint, finely chopped
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/4 cup fennel, thinly shaved
- 1/2 cup green peas, cooked
- 1/2 cup pitted green olives
- 1/4 cup raisins
- 1/4 cup pine nuts
Instructions
Take your taste buds on a trip to the Middle East to enjoy those warm spices, spicy sauces, and zesty citrus notes!
Step 1
Prepare rice according to package directions with harissa paste and saffron threads. Cool slightly.
Step 2
For the vinaigrette, in small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic, salt, black pepper, cumin, cinnamon, parsley and mint; set aside.
Step 3
In large bowl, toss together rice, chicken, fennel and vinaigrette. Stir in peas, olives, raisins and pine nuts.
Recipe Tips
Serve warm or chilled.
Add pomegranate seeds for a burst of tangy sweetness.
What is Saffron?
Saffron has a sweet, subtle floral flavor and an unmistakable aroma. Known as red gold, this spice isn’t just pricey because the flavor complexity is second to none, it’s also because saffron is handpicked stigma and styles derived from delicate flowers. It can really elevate a meal! It’s a must for the signature color in an Authentic Spanish Seafood Paella. Looking for a flavorful side? This Cilantro Lime and Saffron Basmati Rice is a sweeter twist on a classic Cilantro Lime Rice. Or break out the rice cooker for this Creamy Saffron Risotto.
Cooking Tip: If you opt for ground saffron, use half the amount – it dissolves easily, flavoring a dish evenly.
Saffron Substitute
While it’s hard to replicate, it isn’t always simple or economically viable to score some authentic saffron. Rather than risk buying imitation saffron, opt for an alternative. Turmeric will give your dish that signature golden hue. While it brings a bold, earthy flavor it doesn’t quite deliver those delicate floral notes.
More Moroccan Spices
These North African flavors – a mixture of cumin, paprika, coriander, turmeric, allspice, cloves, ginger, and cinnamon – create an irresistibly warm spice blend. When you are at the store, look for a bottle of Moroccan seasoning, known as Ras El Hanout. Whether you’re in a time crunch or merely want to simplify storage and meal prep, this seasoning may become a fast favorite! Simmered in stews, rubbed on meat, or sprinkled on top of salads, this a winning combo that helps make a meal unforgettable.
