Description
1 cup wild rice, cooked
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/4 cup toasted pecans (optional)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
1 tablespoon fresh orange juice
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish
Directions:
In a large bowl, combine the cooked wild rice, dried cranberries, crumbled feta, and toasted pecans (if using).
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, honey (or maple syrup), orange juice, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until the dressing is well
combined.
Pour the citrus dressing over the rice mixture and toss gently to combine.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately. Alternatively, chill in the refrigerator for a refreshing, cold salad.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (for rice)
Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 350 kcal per serving
Servings: 4
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Cook the Wild Rice: Rinse 1 cup of wild rice under cold water. In a saucepan, combine the rice with 3 cups of water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 45-55 minutes until the grains are tender and have burst open. Drain any excess liquid and let it cool slightly.
2. Toast the Pecans: While the rice cooks, place 1/4 cup of pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat. Toast for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant. Let them cool, then chop roughly.
3. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, vigorously whisk or shake 1 tablespoon each of olive oil, honey, fresh orange juice, and fresh lemon juice with 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard until fully emulsified. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, add the slightly cooled, cooked wild rice, 1/2 cup dried cranberries, 1/2 cup crumbled feta, and the toasted pecans.
5. Dress and Finish: Pour the citrus dressing over the salad. Toss gently but thoroughly until everything is evenly coated. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile salad pairs beautifully with numerous dishes. Serve it as a vibrant side to roasted chicken, grilled salmon, or pork chops. For a vegetarian meal, it’s excellent alongside stuffed peppers or a lentil loaf. It also makes a fantastic standalone lunch—simply add a handful of baby spinach or arugula to bulk it up. For entertaining, present it in a hollowed-out orange or acorn squash for an elegant, autumnal touch.
How-to Summary
Cook and cool wild rice. Toast pecans for extra flavor. Whisk together a simple citrus-honey dressing. Combine all ingredients in a large bowl, toss with the dressing, and garnish with fresh parsley. Can be served immediately or chilled.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time? Absolutely. You can prepare it up to a day in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator. For best texture, add the pecans and parsley just before serving.
What can I substitute for feta cheese? Goat cheese or crumbled blue cheese would offer a similar tangy profile. For a dairy-free version, use a vegan feta alternative or simply omit it.
Is there a substitute for wild rice? Yes. A blend of brown rice and quinoa works well, though the cooking time and unique chewy texture of wild rice will be different.
How should I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often meld and improve overnight.
Can I use a different dried fruit? Certainly. Dried cherries, chopped apricots, or golden raisins would all be delicious substitutes for the cranberries.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcooking the wild rice into mush; it should be tender but retain a pleasant chew. Do not skip toasting the pecans if using them, as this step unlocks their essential oils and flavor. Ensure your rice is not piping hot when you mix the salad, as it can melt the feta. Finally, don’t overdress the salad—start with the recommended amount, toss, and only add more if needed after tasting.
Conclusion
This Wild Rice Salad with Cranberries and Feta is a perfect harmony of textures and flavors—chewy, tangy, sweet, and nutty. It’s surprisingly simple to prepare yet impressive enough for any occasion. By following the detailed steps and tips provided, you can easily master this recipe and adapt it to your taste. It’s a reliable, nutritious dish that is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
