This gourmet salad is my choice for a savory side at a Holiday feast. It boasts of a melange of flavors ( imagine the earthy flavor of spinach, the nuttiness of the black rice, the sweetness of the caramelized pumpkin and the tartness of the sun-dried tomatoes ) that have just been brought together in a manner that invokes sheer delight without compromising on health. And I bet you would calling for the seconds instead of reaching out for those sinful desserts !!
Toss the pumpkin cubes with some of the balsamic vinegar and olive oil. Sprinkle salt and put in the oven. Roast at 180 C till it shows signs of browning / caramelization.
Cook the black rice separately till it is cooked yet slightly firm to touch.
Mix the olive oil, honey, orange juice and remaining vinegar in a bowl.
Take the black rice, roasted pumpkin, blanched spinach, chopped sundried tomatoes in a bowl. Sprinkle the dressing all over it. Toss together.
Season with salt and ground pepper.
Serve warm. Or slightly chilled ( letting it sit in the fridge also allows the flavors to come together )
Keyword black rice, christmas recipe, healthy recipe, pumpkin, vegan recipes