Instructions: 1. Cook the rice in a large saucepan of lightly salted boiling water for about 30 minutes or according to the directions if using a mix. Cook until tender, do not overcook. Rinse the rice under cold running water to cool quickly; drain thoroughly.

2. Place the pepper, scallions, celery, tomato, apples, apricots, raisins and cooked rice in serving bowl and mix well.

3. In a small bowl, mix together the ingredients for the dressing with a pinch each of salt and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning.

4. Pour dressing over rice and toss. Serve at room temperature at once OR chill for later.

VARIATION: Substitute dried soft apples for fresh.

NOTES : Appetizing and colorful rice salad combining many different flavors. Ideal for a packed lunch or picnic.

the dressing looks like a good one for things like spinach and onion salad with nuts and beans. etc. lowfat picnic idea or a portable lunch idea

If you would like to email yourself the recipe for later use, or share the recipe with your friends or family, enter the email addresses below and this recipe will be emailed to you and others as well.