Vegan Crispy Rice Salad
Oven-crisped paprika rice, soy strips, cucumber, and tomatoes finished with a creamy cashew-miso dressing.
This salad is built around contrast rather than a leafy base. Baking cooked rice with paprika and soy creates crisp grains and clusters, while cool vegetables and a silky plant-based dressing turn it into a complete summer meal.
Instructions
- 1
If you do not have leftover rice, boil about 160 g dry rice in plenty of lightly salted water and drain it while still al dente; you need 400 g cooked rice.
- 2
Spread the cooked rice on a baking sheet. Season it with a little olive oil, the soy sauce, and paprika, then mix well.
- 3
Bake in a preheated fan oven at 180°C (356°F) for about 25 minutes, stirring halfway, until crisp. Let the rice cool for the source's 30-minute rest before assembling.
25 min
- 4
Meanwhile, cover the cashews with boiling water and soak for 5 minutes. Drain, then blend with the capers, miso, lemon juice, garlic, measured olive oil, and half a glass of water until smooth.
5 min
- 5
Sauté the soy strips in a nonstick skillet with a drizzle of olive oil for a few minutes, or follow their package directions. Wash and quarter the tomatoes; peel and dice the cucumber.
- 6
Combine the soy strips, tomatoes, cucumber, and cooled crispy rice in a salad bowl. Spoon the cashew-miso dressing over the top, finish with fresh basil, and serve.
Ago's Notes
- Use 400 g leftover cooked rice, or cook about 160 g dry rice in lightly salted water and drain it while still al dente.
- The source lists 30 minutes of rest separately from its 50-minute preparation and cooking time. Use this time to cool the crisped rice before assembling so the vegetables stay fresh.
- Add the cashew dressing only at the end so it does not soften the rice. The components can be prepared ahead and kept separate until serving.
- Follow the package directions for the soy strips if they differ from the brief skillet sauté described here.
Add the dressing and basil just before serving so every bite keeps its contrast of creamy, fresh, and crisp.
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