I felt a sudden time crunch as I was preparing dinner for a delightful crew heading out to join the parade of Christmas ships on the lake the other night {can anyone relate??}.
Thankfully, I happened to have had some ingredients on hand that allowed me to throw together a splendid little side dish, which, I must say, tasted great, looked very festive, and is completely holiday table worthy. It is always nice to discover dishes that can be held and served at room temperature. I helps lower the stress of serving a multi-course meal.
To make it, I prepared 16 ounces of Black Japonica Rice [I love the deep burgundy/black color}…..wild rice would work wonderfully as well.
After cooking the rice {1:2} in chicken broth, I let it cool a bit before tossing it with some Splendid Vinaigrette….about 4 tablespoons. When it had cooled to room temperature I mixed it up with the jewels from 2 pomegranates, and about 4 tablespoons of chopped parsley and 2 tablespoons of chopped chives, plus a little sea salt and fresh ground pepper. It sat for about 2 hours before it was served. It was truly toothsome.
It was a great accompaniment for a fillet of beef sandwich bar, featuring thin slices of the rare beef, prepared along the guidelines of my friend Linda who offers wonderful recipes at A Year at the Table. It turned out beautifully. Aside the perfectly rare, thin slices of beef and warmed rolls, I set up a buffet with mayo, Dijon mustard, horseradish, and cornichons.
Looks and sounds fabulous, Emily! Will have to add this to my list of must-try recipes!
I am happy to have found your beautiful blog, and look forward to see what you will be sharing in 2012.
Merry Christmas to you and your family.
Teresa
xoxo