Thanksgiving Harvest Rice Salad

Step 1 -In a pot, add the rice, the water, and 1/2 teaspoon of the salt and stir briefly to combine.

Step 2 -Bring the rice mixture to a boil.

Step 3 -Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot.

Step 4 -Allow the rice to simmer, covered and undisturbed, until the liquid is mostly absorbed, about 50 minutes.

Step 5 -Transfer the covered pot from the heat and allow the rice to rest until the liquid is completely absorbed, about 10 minutes.

Step 6 -Uncover the pot and fluff the rice with a fork.

Step 7 -Allow the rice to cool to almost room temperature.

Step 8 -In a medium-sized bowl, add the cooked rice, the cranberries, the pecans, and the green onions and stir and fold to combine.

Step 9 -In a jar with a lid, add the lemon juice, the olive oil, the orange zest, the extra salt, and the black pepper.

Step 10 -Seal the jar and shake vigorously until the lemon juice mixture is combined.

Step 11 -Add the dressing to the rice mixture, stir, and serve immediately.