Adzuki Bean and Brown Rice Salad with Citrus Dressing

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

A vibrant and wholesome salad combining nutty adzuki beans and chewy brown rice, tossed with fresh herbs and a bright citrus vinaigrette. This mediterranean-inspired vegetarian ready in about 60 minutes blends cooked adzuki beans, cooked brown rice, medium, diced red bell pepper into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 340 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 15 min Cook: 45 min Serves 4 Mediterranean cuisine 340 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a large bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups cooked adzuki beans and 2 cups cooked brown rice, stirring gently to mix.
  2. Step 2: Add 1 medium diced red bell pepper, 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley, and 3 sliced green onions to the bowl.
  3. Step 3: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tbsp olive oil, 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice, 1 tbsp fresh orange juice, and 1 tsp honey until emulsified.
  4. Step 4: Pour the citrus dressing over the bean and rice mixture, then season with 3/4 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper.
  5. Step 5: Toss everything thoroughly to coat all ingredients evenly with the dressing.
  6. Step 6: Refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld before serving chilled or at room temperature.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Adzuki Bean and Brown Rice Salad with Citrus Dressing take to make?

Total time is about 60 minutes (15 min prep + 45 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Adzuki Bean and Brown Rice Salad with Citrus Dressing?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Adzuki Bean and Brown Rice Salad with Citrus Dressing?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Adzuki Bean and Brown Rice Salad with Citrus Dressing for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Adzuki Bean and Brown Rice Salad with Citrus Dressing?

Mediterranean vegetarian like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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