This tomato, prosciutto, and pea rice salad is a delicious medley of cherry tomatoes, salty prosciutto, and delicate peas, all nestled atop a bed of fluffy rice, creating a symphony of colors, flavors, and textures. If you’re seeking a simple yet sensational and unique dish, this Italian rice salad recipe is an absolute must-try.

Italian rice salad in a big white bowl on a table.

As much as I love the classic side salad recipes (macaroni salad, pasta salad, potato salad, etc.) sometimes I like to mix it up and try something different. I stumbled upon this rice salad in a pile of old recipes recently, and I thought it definitely fit the bill of being different but still totally delicious.

I made a few changes to the recipe and then gathered up all the ingredients. In no time, I had this salad put together and couldn’t be more pleased with the results. It was exactly what I was hoping it would be.

The combination of cherry tomatoes, prosciutto, and peas brings a burst of freshness to the rice salad. The juicy sweetness of the tomatoes complements the savory notes of the prosciutto, while the peas add a delightful burst of flavor. Each bite is a celebration of vibrant flavors.

italian rice salad served on a small white plate and in a big bowl.

I also love that this Italian rice salad is totally adaptable to whatever flavors and ingredients you love. Feel free to personalize it to suit your taste and dietary preferences. Vegetarian? Swap the prosciutto for grilled vegetables or marinated tofu. Looking for an extra kick of flavor? Experiment with various herbs, spices, or dressings to create your own signature twist. The beauty of rice salad lies in its versatility, allowing you to use the ingredients you love.

I really think you’re going to enjoy this recipe! Want more? Check out this collection of my favorite salad recipes. There’s so many classic and unique recipes to enjoy!

TABLE OF CONTENTS hide

1 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

2 Ingredients

3 How To Make

4 Recipe Variations

5 Frequently Asked Questions

6 More Side Dishes You May Enjoy

7 Italian Rice Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Its vibrant flavors, ease of preparation, and versatility make it a go-to recipe for busy individuals, gatherings, and those looking for a light and refreshing meal.
You can easily customize this recipe to suit your preferences and dietary restrictions.
With just a few simple steps, you can have a colorful and satisfying dish ready in no time.

close up of Italian rice salad in white bowl.

Ingredients

To create this flavorful Italian rice salad, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

extra virgin olive oil
balsamic vinegar
garlic
sugar
salt
ground pepper
long-grain rice
cherry tomatoes
frozen peas
prosciutto
parmesan cheese
fresh basil leaves

ingredients for Italian rice salad in a bowl.

Italian rice salad in a white bowl on top of a patterned tablecloth.

How To Make

Now that you have all the ingredients, it’s time to put this easy recipe together. You can find the step-by-step instructions below. I’ve also provided a full ingredient list and detailed instructions in the printable recipe card at the end of this post.

In a small bowl, whisk together the oil, vinegar, garlic, salt, and pepper.
In a large bowl, add the rice, peas, tomatoes, prosciutto, parmesan, and basil.

adding dressing to Italian rice salad in a bowl.

Drizzle the dressing over the top, then toss thoroughly to combine.
Let the salad stand for 20 minutes to blend flavors and serve. Alternatively, you can also cover and then refrigerate until ready to serve.

And that’s it! So easy. So delicious! You’re going to love it!

Recipe Variations

If you’re looking to put your own unique spin on this gourmet Italian rice salad, there are plenty of variations to try.

For a heartier option, consider adding in some cooked quinoa or farro.
You can also experiment with different spices and herbs to give your salad a different flavor profile. Some great options include cumin, turmeric, or cilantro.
If you’re looking for a lighter option, try swapping out the rice for cauliflower rice or adding in some raw veggies like shredded carrots or cucumber.
For a sweeter twist, add in some diced mango or sliced strawberries.
Turn it into a full meal by adding extra protein. Grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu would be great options.

The possibilities are endless, so don’t be afraid to get creative and try out different combinations.

Frequently Asked Questions

And if you’re still unsure about anything related to this dish, fear not. I’ve got you covered with some frequently asked questions.

Can I use a different type of rice?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of rice to achieve different textures and flavors in your salad. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this salad up to a day in advance. Just be sure to keep it refrigerated until ready to serve.

Can I substitute the vegetables with others?

Definitely! The beauty of this salad is that it’s versatile and can be customized to fit your personal taste preferences. Swap out the vegetables for your favorites, or use whatever is in season for maximum freshness.

Can I add protein to this dish?

Of course! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu are all great additions to this salad. Simply cook them separately and add them in just before serving.

close up of Italian rice salad in white bowl on a table.

More Side Dishes You May Enjoy

I hope you’ll try making this tomato, prosciutto, and pea Italian rice salad. If you do, I’d love to hear about it. Please leave a comment and a 5-star rating below.

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