Need a salad for the annual Halloween BOO-ffet? How about a yummy rice salad with Mandarin oranges and an orange balsamic vinaigrette? The following Trick or Treat Salad flaunts traditional Halloween colors – Black & Orange. The salad can be made a day or two ahead, and is actually quick and easy to make.

Black rice is available in Asian grocery stores, and since it’s growing in popularity, can be found in many larger grocery stores; check the bulk food section. Black rice is also called emperor’s rice and forbidden rice. Although it has been enjoyed for thousands of years, it was once reserved only for royalty and the rich. It’s higher in protein than other rice varieties, and is rich in iron, fiber, and antioxidants. Black rice is also perfect for making Halloween dishes because of the color.

8 Servings

1 cup Black Rice (also known as Forbidden Rice or Emperor's Rice)
2 cups water
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon butter

2 12 oz. cans mandarin oranges, drained
1/4 cup white onions, finely chopped
1/4 cup slivered almonds

Dressing:
3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
3 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Zest of 1 orange

1. Rinse the rice with cold water and drain well.
2. Place the drained rice, water, salt, and butter in a rice cooker; alternately, in a large saucepan on the stovetop, bring the water to a boil and add the rice, salt, and butter. When the mixture boils, cover, turn down to a simmer, and let cook until the water is absorbed, 30-40 minutes.
3. When the rice is tender, fluff and let cool.
4. Place the cooled rice, mandarin oranges, onions, and slivered almonds in a large serving bowl.
5. Whisk together the dressing ingredients and pour over the rice mixture; toss to mix.
6. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until serving time.

Amount Per Serving
Calories 231 Calories from Fat 95
Percent Total Calories From: Fat 41% Protein 7% Carb. 52%

Nutrient Amount per Serving
Total Fat 11 g
Saturated Fat 2 g
Cholesterol 4 mg
Sodium 307 mg
Total Carbohydrate 30 g
Dietary Fiber 1 g
Sugars 1 g
Protein 4 g

Vitamin A 17% Vitamin C 60% Calcium 0% Iron 2%