DEAR SPRINGFIELD MAMA

Recipe from contributor Cait Cowan

Easiest Mediterranean Salad: This is one of my go-to recipes because it’s fast, completely customizable, and very filling. The dish is loaded with whole grains, fiber, protein, carbs and healthy fats for a complete and balanced meal! 

Ingredients

• 2 cups brown rice (use any rice, but brown adds deeper flavor)
• 1 English cucumber, chopped (regular works too*)
• ½ cup tomato, chopped
• 1 shallot, chopped
• 1 (15-oz) can garbanzo beans, drained
• Olives (black are milder; green or kalamata are sharper)
• 2 Tbsp olive oil
• Hummus, sliced lemon (or juice), feta cheese, salt and pepper for topping, to taste

*If you use a regular cucumber, I recommend peeling at least half of it so it offers sweet, mild flavors. The peel can be bitter!

Throw everything into a bowl and toss. Once thoroughly mixed, drizzle olive oil, salt, pepper, lemon juice, feta, and hummus in heaps or small amounts; add as much or as little as you want. Fresh herbs are a nice touch if you have them.

You can add diced chicken, salami or pepperoni for extra protein. You can also add crushed red pepper if you want a kick of spice.

I’ve shopped for these ingredients at several different grocery stores, but Aldi consistently is the cheapest.

More easy dinner ideas: