Recipe

Crunchy Raisin Rice

Submitted by: Mrs. Margaret Staszak, WA Honorable Mention - Soups/Salads/Side Dishes Wise Choices Recipe Contest

Toasted, slivered almonds add super crunch to a savory side dish of brown rice and raisins.

Details

Serves:
Serving size: 1 cup per serving

INGREDIENTS

2 tbsp. light olive oil
1 small onion, chopped
4 stalks celery, chopped
3-3/4 cups water, divided
1 c. California raisins
2 cups instant whole grain brown rice
1/2 tsp. seasoned salt
1 tsp. light olive oil
1/2 c. slivered almonds, toasted

PROCEDURE

Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in heavy sautépan and sauté onion and celery for 3 to 4 minutes, until onion is translucent, but celery is still somewhat crunchy. Set aside. In a 1-quart bowl or glass measure, microwave 2 cups water on high for 2 minutes and add raisins; let stand for 3 to 5 minutes to plump. Drain and set aside. Meanwhile, in a 1-quart saucepan, heat remaining 1-3/4 cups water to boiling and stir in rice. Return to boil; cover and simmer for 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in raisins; recover and let stand for 5 minutes.

To serve, combine onion-celery sauté and rice in large salad bowl. Season with seasoned salt and 1 teaspoon olive oil; stir together. Sprinkle almonds on top and serve hot.

Nutrition Information (per serving)

Calories 230(32% from fat); Total Fat 8g (sat 1g, mono 5g, poly 1g); Cholesterol 0mg; Protein 4g; Carbohydrates 36g; Fiber 3g; Iron 1mg; Sodium 120mg; Calcium 38mg