Mediterranean Black Rice Salad

 

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            SALAD:

• 1 cup black rice, cooked and cooled
• 1 cup mixed colors of cherry tomatoes, cut in half
• Heaping 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, cut in half
• 1/2 cup diced mozzarella cheese balls or pieces
• 2 cloves of garlic chopped fine
• 1/2 cup toasted pine nuts, cashews, or walnuts
• 1/2 cup chopped mint leaves
• 1/2 cup chopped basil (couldn't detect it in recipe)
  
  add a cup or so of arugula, kale or romaine, or canned white beans, these and nuts are optional
  
  VINIAGARETTE:

• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon pure maple syrup
• 1 dash of habanero hot sauce
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (olives provide salt as well)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  
  Black Rice is a rarity and in ancient China it was called the forbidden rice. In my local grocery I happened upon Lundberg which has come out with a black rice. I'm going back to get more before they sell out. I am also looking for other suppliers. All I have to say is make a double batch because you will instantly want more. Gary raved about it. Enjoy.