Kosher or sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
2c.long grain white rice
3c.chicken or vegetable stock
2c.chopped walnuts
1/2c.California raisins
2tbsp.chopped fresh Italian parsley
1/2c.chopped scallions
1/2c.chopped celery
1/2c.chopped carrots
1/2c.chopped green or red bell pepper
Lettuce leaves to line platesoptional
1brunch watercressoptional
Instructions
Dressing
Place the lemon juice in a bowl. Whisk in the oil and lemon zest. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Set aside
Salad
In a fine mesh strainer, rinse the rice under cold running water until the water runs clear. Place the rice and chicken stock in a heavy saucepan and bring to a boil.
Let the water boil for 2 to 3 minutes; then reduce the heat to low.
Cover the pan and cook for about 15 minutes or until all the stock is absorbed and rice is tender. Fluff with a fork and let cool.
In a large bowl, combine the cooled rice with remaining salad ingredients.
Add the lemon dressing and mix well. Check and adjust the seasonings. Line a bowl or platter with lettuce leaves. Mound the rice salad on the lettuce and garnish with watercress sprigs.
Source: Chef Roy Harland and California Raisin Marketing Board