Red Rice and Grains with Buffalo Cheese and Roasted Cherry Tomatoes

Here is the recipe for red rice and grains with buffalo cheese and roasted cherry tomatoes. This dish is a fusion of Mediterranean flavors, with the addition of red rice bringing a hint of hazelnut and richness to the other components.

Ingredients

• 200 g of red rice and grains (mix that may contain whole grain rice, barley, spelt, etc.)
• 200 g of cherry tomatoes
• 150 g of Campania buffalo mozzarella (cut into cubes)
• Extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• A few fresh basil leaves
• 1 clove of garlic
• Balsamic vinegar (optional)

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 180 °C. Wash the cherry tomatoes and cut them in half. Place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, cut side up.
2. Peel and crush the garlic clove and spread it over the tomatoes. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. You can add a drizzle of balsamic vinegar if you like.
3. Roast the tomatoes in the oven for about 15-20 minutes or until they’re slightly caramelized.
4. Meanwhile, cook the rice and grains in salted water following the instructions on the package, which usually takes longer than white rice, so check the doneness after about 30 minutes.
5. Once ready, drain the rice well and let it cool for a few minutes.
6. Cut the buffalo mozzarella into cubes and let it drain.
7. Combine the rice and grains with the buffalo mozzarella and roasted tomatoes in a large bowl. Adjust with salt and pepper if necessary.
8. Finally, garnish with fresh basil leaves to bring fragrance and color to the dish.

This dish can be enjoyed hot or at room temperature, perfect for both a hearty meal and as a single course in a summer dinner.

Curiosity

Red rice has ancient origins and is mainly cultivated in Asia. It is appreciated not only for its distinct flavor but also for its beneficial properties, such as its antioxidant content and ability to help maintain low cholesterol levels in the blood. The red color is due to anthocyanin, the same substance that colors many red and blue fruits.