Rice Salad With Cherry Tomatoes, Parmesan, Peas, and Ham

Submitted by SweetSueAl

"Taste the rice as it nears the end of its cooking time; it should be cooked through and toothsome, but not crunchy. Be careful not to overcook the rice or the grains will “blow out” and fray. Aromatic basmati rice works well in any of the rice salads, but regular long-grain rice works fine, too. From Cook's Illustrated"

 

• Ready In: 1hr 10mins
• Ingredients: 12
• Serves: 6

ingredients

• 354.88 ml long grain white rice or 354.88 ml basmati rice
• 7.39 ml table salt
• 29.58 ml extra virgin olive oil
• 14.79 ml balsamic vinegar
• 1 small garlic clove, minced (about 1/2 teaspoon)
• 4.92 ml table salt
• 2.46 ml ground black pepper
• 118.29 ml frozen peas, thawed
• 170.09 g cherry tomatoes, quartered and seeded (about 1 cup)
• 28.34 g deli ham, deli-style baked (thin-sliced or prosciutto, chopped fine, about 1/4 cup)
• 28.34 g parmesan cheese, shredded (about 1/4 cup)
• 59.14 ml fresh basil, shredded (fresh)

directions

1. For Boiled Rice:

2. Bring 4 quarts water to boil in large stockpot. Meanwhile, heat medium skillet over medium heat until hot, about 3 minutes; add rice and toast, stirring frequently, until faintly fragrant and some grains turn opaque, about 5 minutes.
3. Add salt to boiling water and stir in toasted rice. Return to boil and cook, uncovered, until rice is tender but not soft, 8 to 10 minutes for long-grain rice or about 15 minutes for basmati.
4. Meanwhile, line rimmed baking sheet with foil or parchment paper. Drain rice in large fine-mesh strainer or colander; spread on prepared baking sheet. Cool while preparing salad ingredients.

5. For Salad:

6. Stir together oil, vinegar, garlic, salt, and pepper in small bowl. Combine rice, peas, tomatoes, ham, Parmesan, and basil in large bowl; drizzle oil mixture over and toss thoroughly to combine.
7. Let stand 20 minutes to blend flavors and serve.