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Tomato Fried Rice Salad Recipe

4.7 from 77 reviews

Tomato Fried Rice Salad is a vibrant, flavorful dish combining massaged kale with tomato-infused fried rice, enhanced by savory garlic, spices, olives, and crumbled feta. This light yet satisfying salad great for a wholesome lunch or dinner, melding crispy rice texture with fresh greens and bold flavors.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Massaged Kale

  • 1 large bunch kale, thoroughly rinsed and dried
  • 2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 tsp. Italian or herb seasoning
  • 3/4 tsp. kosher salt
  • 1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper

For the Tomato Fried Rice

  • 5 cloves garlic, chopped
  • 1/4 cup tomato paste
  • 1 tsp. granulated sugar (optional)
  • 1 tsp. ground gochugaru (optional)
  • 1/4 tsp. onion powder
  • Kosher salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 3 cups cooked rice

For Serving

  • 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup chopped olives
  • Crumbled feta cheese (amount as desired)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Massaged Kale: Strip the kale leaves from their ribs and tear the leaves into 2-inch bite-sized pieces. Finely dice the ribs into 1/4-inch pieces. Place both leaves and ribs in a large mixing bowl. Add the olive oil, Italian seasoning, 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Use your hands to thoroughly massage the oil and seasonings into the kale until the leaves become slightly translucent, about 5 minutes.
  2. Cook the Tomato Fried Rice: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add olive oil. Once hot, add the chopped garlic, tomato paste, granulated sugar (if using), ground gochugaru (if using), onion powder, and season lightly with kosher salt and black pepper. Stir continuously until the tomato paste begins to lightly caramelize, approximately 2 minutes. Add the cooked rice to the skillet and stir to coat the rice evenly with the tomato paste mixture. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the rice is heated through and begins to crisp at the edges, about 8 minutes.
  3. Assemble and Serve: Place a generous helping of the massaged kale on each plate. Top with the warmed tomato fried rice. Garnish with thinly sliced red onion, chopped olives, and crumbled feta cheese. Serve immediately to enjoy the contrast of crispy and fresh textures.

Notes

  • For a spicier version, increase the amount of gochugaru or add a pinch of red chili flakes.
  • You can substitute cooked brown rice for white rice to add additional fiber.
  • Massaging the kale softens its texture, making it more palatable and blending well with the warm rice.
  • Olives and feta add salty, savory notes; adjust quantities according to taste preferences or dietary restrictions.
  • Make sure the rice is day-old or well-cooled for best frying results and to prevent mushiness.

Keywords: tomato fried rice, kale salad, Mediterranean salad, vegetarian fried rice, healthy rice salad, massaged kale recipe