Black Rice, Tamari Pork and Roasted Pumpkin Salad
This black rice, tamari pork, and roasted pumpkin salad is a healthy and flavour-packed meal featuring tender pork fillet, nutty black rice, roasted pumpkin, fresh spinach, and savoury Asian-inspired dressing.
Perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep, this colourful salad delivers a satisfying balance of protein, vegetables, and hearty grains.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- High in protein
- Packed with flavour and texture
- Great for meal prep
- Healthy and filling
- Perfect warm or cold
Ingredients
For the Salad
- Black rice
- Sushi vinegar
- Butternut pumpkin
- Sesame seeds
- Baby spinach
- Green shallots
For the Pork
- Pork fillet
- Tamari
- Mirin
- Peanut oil
For the Stir-Fried Aromatics
- Red onion
- Garlic
- Fresh red chilli
How to Make Black Rice Pork Salad
Step 1: Cook the Black Rice
Cook the black rice until tender.
Drain and stir through sushi vinegar while warm.
Step 2: Roast the Pumpkin
Place pumpkin on a lined tray.
Sprinkle with sesame seeds and roast until golden and tender.
Step 3: Cook the Pork
Sear the pork fillet until browned.
Drizzle with tamari and mirin, then roast until cooked through.
Rest and slice.
Step 4: Prepare the Onion Mixture
Cook:
- Onion
- Garlic
- Chilli
until fragrant and lightly caramelised.
Add remaining tamari and mirin.
Step 5: Assemble the Salad
Combine:
- Black rice
- Roasted pumpkin
- Onion mixture
- Baby spinach
- Shallots
Top with sliced pork and drizzle over any pan juices.
Tips for the Best Salad
- Let pork rest before slicing to keep it juicy
- Roast pumpkin until caramelised for extra flavour
- Use fresh ginger or chilli for more heat
- Black rice adds a nutty texture and extra fibre
- Serve warm for best flavour
Serving Suggestions
This salad pairs perfectly with:
- Steamed greens
- Asian cucumber salad
- Edamame
- Miso soup
- Extra chilli sauce
Recipe Variations
Lower Carb Option
Replace black rice with cauliflower rice.
Different Protein
Swap pork for:
- Chicken
- Beef
- Salmon
- Tofu
Extra Crunch
Add:
- Cashews
- Almonds
- Crispy shallots
Meal Prep & Storage
- Store in the fridge for up to 3 days
- Excellent for meal prep lunches
- Keep dressing separate if preparing ahead
- Enjoy warm or chilled
Final Thoughts
This black rice, tamari pork, and roasted pumpkin salad is a wholesome, protein-rich meal packed with fresh ingredients and bold Asian flavours. It’s healthy, satisfying, and perfect for easy lunches or nourishing dinners.