Skip to main content

Basmati Rice with Summer Vegetable Salad

This vibrant basmati rice and summer vegetable salad is a celebration of seasonal produce, combining fragrant grains with a colourful medley of radishes, tomatoes and crunchy summer squash. The dish is brought to life with a zesty, homemade herb vinaigrette made from fresh thyme and flat-leaf parsley, which provides a bright contrast to the earthy rice. It is an excellent way to use up garden vegetables while keeping your meals light and refreshing.

As a versatile vegan main or a substantial side dish for a barbecue, this salad is both healthy and satisfying. The mixture of leafy greens, sprouts and toasted pine nuts adds a wonderful variety of textures that hold up well for a packed lunch or a light evening meal. Serve it slightly chilled or at room temperature to allow the herb-infused dressing to fully develop its savoury flavour.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Basmati Rice with Summer Vegetable Salad

  • 1 small shallot, chopped

  • 2 tablespoons chopped flat-leaf parsley

  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar

  • 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves

  • Kosher salt, freshly ground pepper

  • 80ml extra-virgin olive oil

  • 475ml cooked basmati rice, cooled

  • 375g bite-size pieces assorted vegetables (such as radishes, tomatoes, peas, summer squash) or carrot ribbons

  • 3/4 cup torn mixed leafy greens, sprouts, and herbs

  • 1/3 cup chopped red, yellow, or white onion or spring onions

  • 2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts (optional)

How to make Basmati Rice with Summer Vegetable Salad

Pulse first 4 ingredients in a blender until combined; season with salt and pepper. With blender running, slowly drizzle in oil. Process dressing until well blended.

Place remaining ingredients in a large bowl; drizzle with 45ml dressing and toss to coat. Pass remaining dressing alongside for drizzling over.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
flu eligibility checker

Ask, share, connect.

Browse discussions, ask questions, and share experiences across hundreds of health topics.

symptom checker

Feeling unwell?

Assess your symptoms online for free

Sign up to the Patient newsletter

Your weekly dose of clear, trustworthy health advice - written to help you feel informed, confident and in control.

Please enter a valid email address

By subscribing you accept our Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time. We never sell your data.