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Brown Rice and Spinach Salad with Orange Vinaigrette

Spinach is a great source of vitamin A, C, iron, and calcium.  Spinach also contains high levels of lutein, which is an antioxidant.  Lutein has been linked to promoting healthy eyes and healthy skin.

Serves: 1 cup

Ingredients

1.5 cups uncooked brown rice 

3 cups water 

4 cups fresh spinach leaves 

2 cans mandarin oranges, drained 

1/3 cup chopped red onion \

1/2 cup chopped pecans 

 

Dressing: 

2/3 cup orange juice 

2 Tbsp olive oil 

2 Tbsp balsamic vinegar 

2 Tbsp honey 

2 tsp orange zest 

1/2 tsp salt 

Directions

Combine rice and water in a saucepan.  Cook over high heat and bring to a boil; turn heat to low and simmer for 35-45 minutes or until all liquid has been absorbed.  While rice is cooking, prepare dressing.  In a medium bowl, whisk together orange juice, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, orange zest and salt.  Pour dressing over hot rice and mix well.  Cover and chill until ready to serve.  Before serving, stir spinach leaves, mandarin oranges, onions and pecans into the rice mixture.