{Brown Rice Salad with Arugula, Tomatoes, Feta and Avocado}

Sometimes the simpler the meal the better.  Especially a meal that is packed with tons of fresh ingredients where the flavors all play off each other.  This simple, yet satisfying and delicious “salad” has been my go to lunch for the past few days.  

This salad is so easy to prepare, and I generally have all the ingredients in my fridge or pantry.   Plus if you cook up a big batch of brown rice early in the week, say Sunday or a Monday, you can cut down on the "cook" time and make salad prep even easier!  How great is that?  

The best part about this salad, in my opinion is the fact that you virtually need no dressing!  The peppery arugula adds great flavor, and you get a flavor punch from the tangy feta.  I love buying a block of feta (Trader Joe’s is my favorite) and cutting it into thick chunks, delicious!  Top the salad off with a little fresh ground lemon pepper (I buy mine at Trader Joe’s) and a squirt of fresh lemon juice and you are all set!   This salad really couldn't be easier!  Plus I think all the colors together look pretty, make this your new go to brown bag lunch! 

Brown Rice Salad with Arugula, Tomatoes, Feta and Avocado

Brunch N’Cupcakes

Serves 4

Ingredients:

1 Cup Dry Brown Rice (Cooked according to package directions and cooled)

2 Cups Baby Arugula, Washed and Dried

1 Avocado – Sliced

1 ½ Cups Grape Tomatoes Halved

2/3 Cup Good Quality Feta (I like Trader Joes)

Lemon Pepper for Serving

1 Lemon Cut into Wedges for Serving

Directions: 
1- Divide rice among four plates (or divide among 4 different sealable containers if taking for lunch). 
2- Top each plate of rice (or sealable container) with equal parts of arugula, tomatoes, feta and avocado.  Sprinkle with fresh ground lemon pepper and a squirt of lemon!  

**Note - Don't squirt salad with lemon if packing and taking for lunch, you don't want the arugula to get wilty.  Instead pack lemons separately!   

Enjoy and Happy Friday!