Ingredients:
1 cup cooked brown rice
1 cup fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
1 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 garlic clove, minced
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Directions:
1. Cook the brown rice according to the package instructions and let it cool.
2. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for 3-4 minutes or until just tender. Drain the green beans and rinse them with cold water to stop the cooking process. Pat dry with a paper towel and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp to the skillet and season with salt and black pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side or until the shrimp are cooked through and pink in color.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and black pepper.
5. In a large bowl, combine the cooked brown rice, green beans, and cooked shrimp. Add the dressing and toss to coat. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve.
Tips for making a perfect rice, green bean, and shrimp salad:
1. Use fresh green beans for the best flavor and texture. If fresh green beans aren’t available, use frozen green beans instead. Just make sure to thaw them before cooking.
2. Cook the shrimp until pink and opaque. Overcooked shrimp will be tough and chewy.
3. The dressing can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just whisk it together and keep it in an airtight container until ready to use.
4. You can substitute the brown rice with white rice, quinoa, or couscous. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
5. Add more vegetables to the salad if desired. Cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and onions are all great additions.
In conclusion, a rice, green bean, and shrimp salad is a healthy and delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. This recipe is a great starting point, but don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and flavors. Enjoy!