Colorful wild rice salad with vegetables and nuts in a bowl

Wild Rice Salad

ByCasey Monroe

why make this recipe

Wild rice salad not only looks beautiful with its mix of colors, but it also packs a punch of nutrients. This salad combines the earthiness of wild rice with the sweetness of pomegranate, the creaminess of feta, and the crunch of pecans. It’s perfect for a quick lunch, a side dish for dinner, or a refreshing addition to any gathering. Plus, the ingredients are wholesome and can be found in most grocery stores, making it an easy choice for nutritious eating.

how to make Wild Rice Salad

Making Wild Rice Salad is straightforward and requires just a few steps. Follow these simple directions, and you’ll have a delicious dish ready to enjoy!

  1. Cook the Wild Rice: Start by rinsing the wild rice under cold water. Then, place it in a pot with double the amount of water. Bring it to a boil, cover, and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 40-50 minutes until the rice is tender. Once cooked, drain any excess water and let the rice cool.

  2. Prepare the Ingredients: While the rice is cooking, wash and roughly chop the baby rocket or arugula. Remove the seeds from the pomegranate and set them aside. Crumble the feta cheese, chop the toasted pecans, and slice the green onions.

  3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the white wine vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, sugar, salt, and black pepper until well combined.

  4. Combine Everything: In a large bowl, add the cooled wild rice, chopped arugula, pomegranate seeds, crumbled feta, dried cranberries, chopped pecans, and sliced green onions. Pour the dressing over the top and toss gently to mix everything well.

  5. Serve: Your Wild Rice Salad is now ready to eat! You can serve it immediately or let it chill in the fridge for 30 minutes to blend the flavors.

how to serve Wild Rice Salad

Wild Rice Salad can be served as a main dish or a side dish. It pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or roasted vegetables. It’s also great for picnics or potlucks, as it holds up well and can be enjoyed cold.

how to store Wild Rice Salad

If you have leftovers, store the Wild Rice Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Just give it a good toss before serving again, as the dressing may settle at the bottom.

tips to make Wild Rice Salad

  • Make sure to rinse the wild rice before cooking to remove dust and impurities.
  • Let the wild rice cool before mixing it into the salad to keep the arugula fresh and crisp.
  • Adjust the amount of dressing to your taste. If you like it tangier, add more vinegar.

variation

You can easily customize this Wild Rice Salad. For a protein boost, add grilled chicken or chickpeas. Swap out the feta for goat cheese or omit cheese altogether for a dairy-free option. You can also add different fruits like orange segments or apples for an extra burst of flavor.

FAQs

Can I use white rice instead of wild rice?
Yes, you can substitute white rice, but the texture and flavor will be different. Wild rice has a nuttier taste and chewy texture that enhances the salad.

How can I make this salad vegan?
To make the salad vegan, simply omit the cheese and replace the honey with maple syrup in the dressing.

Can this salad be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! Wild Rice Salad can be made a few hours in advance or the day before. Just be sure to store it in the fridge and give it a good stir before serving.