SWEET CORN AND BASMATI RICE SALAD

Sweet Corn and Basmati Rice Salad image

Yield Makes 8 servings

Number Of Ingredients 10

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2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1/2 cup plus 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
3 large ears yellow corn, husked
1 cup chopped green onions
2 1/4 cups water
1 1/2 cups basmati rice*
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 1/4 cups coarsely chopped toasted pecans
3 bunches watercress (about 12 ounces total), stems discarded

Steps:

Whisk red wine vinegar and mustard in large bowl to blend. Gradually whisk in 1/2 cup oil. Season vinaigrette to taste with salt and pepper.
Using large sharp knife, cut corn kernels from cobs. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in heavy large skillet over medium heat. Add green onions; sauté 30 seconds. Add corn; sauté until corn is crisp-tender, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. (Vinaigrette and corn mixture can be prepared 1 day ahead. Cover separately; chill. Rewarm corn mixture over medium heat and rewhisk vinaigrette before using.)
Bring 2 1/4 cups water to boil in heavy medium saucepan. Rinse rice in strainer. Add rice and § teaspoon salt to boiling water. Reduce heat to low. Cover and cook until water is absorbed and rice is tender (do not stir), about 20 minutes. Remove from heat. Let stand 5 minutes. Fluff with fork.
Mix rice, corn mixture and pecans in large bowl. Mix in vinaigrette and watercress. Season with salt and pepper. Serve warm or at room temperature.
*Available at Indian markets and many supermarkets.