RICE SALAD WITH HAM

2/3 cup brown rice

1 1/2 tbsp vinegar
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 garlic clove, crushed
1 tsp tarragon, optional
3 tbsp canola or olive oil
2 tbsp water
1 lb fully cooked ham, cut into bite-size cubes
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped fine
tomato slices to garnish dish

Cook the rice according to the package directions.

Combine the vinegar, salt, pepper, garlic, tarragon, oil and water, using a whisk.

Pour the dressing over the hot rice. Let stand until rice is completely cooled.

Mix the rice with the ham and parsley.

Line a pretty bowl with the tomato slices and place the salad in the center.

Yield: 4 servings.