Step 1

1 For the salad: In a medium bowl, add the dried apricots, peaches or mangoes and pour enough hot water over them to cover

Step 2

2 Let soak for 10 minutes

Step 3

3 Combine the rice and water in the pressure cooker

Step 4

4 Lock on the lid and bring to high pressure

Step 5

5 Lower the heat slightly, but maintain high pressure, and cook for 22 minutes

Step 6

6 To cool, use the quick-cool method suggested by the manufacturer of your pressure cooker; or place the pressure cooker in the sink at a slight angle and run cold water on the top of the cooker and down the side, being careful not to let any of the water run over the pressure-release vent or valve

Step 7

7 When cool, unlock and remove the lid, taking care to avoid any steam that is released as you open the cooker

Step 8

8 Pour the rice into a fine-mesh strainer and rinse under cold water

Step 9

9 Allow it to drain, then season with salt and pepper to taste

Step 10

10 Transfer to a large mixing bowl

Step 11

11 (See NOTES)

Step 12

12 Pour the rice into a fine-mesh strainer and rinse under cold water

Step 13

13 Let drain, then season to taste with salt and pepper and transfer to a large bowl

Step 14

14 Drain the soaked apricots, peaches or mangoes and roughly chop

Step 15

15 Add to the rice along with the pine nuts, carrots, scallions, mint and arugula

Step 16

16 For the dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together the pomegranate molasses, olive oil, garlic, and salt and pepper to taste

Step 17

17 Stir in the pomegranate seeds

Step 18

18 Pour over the rice-vegetable mixture and toss to coat the salad evenly with the dressing

Step 19

19 NOTES: To toast pine nuts, place them in a medium skillet over medium-low heat

Step 20

20 Toast, stirring constantly, until the nuts are light golden brown, 3 to 4 minutes

Step 21

21 Transfer to a small plate to cool

Step 22

22 If using an Instant Pot to make the rice, pour 2 cups water into the Instant Pot; then add the 1 cup of rice

Step 23

23 Make sure the steam valve is sealed

Step 24

24 Select PRESSURE (HIGH) and set to 28 minutes

Step 25

25 (It takes about 10 minutes for the appliance to come to pressure before cooking begins

Step 26

26 ) Release the pressure manually by moving the pressure-release handle to “Venting

Step 27

27 ” covering your hand with a towel or hot pad

Step 28

28 Never put your hands or face near the vent when releasing steam

Step 29

29 Drain the rice, if necessary

Step 30

30 Otherwise, fluff the rice and proceed as directed