18 Wild Rice Cranberry Salad Recipe Southern Living Cook Up Something Special!
Published on: Mar 26, 2024
If you're looking for a delicious and unique salad recipe to add to your repertoire, then look no further than this wild rice cranberry salad from Southern Living. Bursting with seasonal flavors and textures, this dish is a perfect addition to your holiday menu or a refreshing side for any meal. Made with hearty wild rice, tart cranberries, and a variety of fresh herbs and vegetables, this salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. And the best part? It's easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time, making it perfect for busy schedules. So let's get cooking!
Main Ingredients: Garlic Clove, Almond Butter, Lemon, Fresh Lemon Juice
Spring is the perfect time to enjoy a fresh and flavorful wild rice salad. This dish combines the nutty texture of wild rice with the crispness of spring vegetables like radishes, asparagus, and peas. Tossed in a light vinaigrette dressing, this salad is a perfect addition to any springtime gathering.
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Wild Rice Salad
Main Ingredients: Long Grain Rice, Wild Rice, Chicken Broth, Celery
This classic wild rice salad is a staple at many potlucks and picnics. It's a simple yet satisfying dish that can be customized with your favorite ingredients. Some popular additions include dried cranberries, toasted almonds, and green onions. The best part? It can be made ahead of time and keeps well in the fridge for a few days.
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Roasted Cranberry, Wild Rice and Kale Salad
Main Ingredients: Fresh Cranberries, Olive Oil, Chopped Fresh Thyme
This hearty wild rice salad features the bold flavors of roasted cranberries and kale. The sweetness of the cranberries pairs perfectly with the earthy taste of wild rice. Add in some crunchy almonds and a tangy vinaigrette dressing, and you have a delicious and nutritious salad that will be a hit at any gathering.
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Wild Rice Lentil Salad with Apples and Cranberries.
Main Ingredients: Long Grain Brown Rice, Wild Rice, Olive Oil, Black
This protein-packed wild rice salad is a great option for a light lunch or a side dish at dinner. The combination of wild rice, lentils, apples, and cranberries creates a delicious sweet and savory flavor profile. Plus, it's packed with nutrients and will keep you feeling full and satisfied.
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Wild Rice Orzo Cranberry Salad
Main Ingredients: Wild Rice, Orzo, Wheat Berries, Currants, Dried
This unique wild rice salad combines the nuttiness of wild rice with the delicate texture of orzo pasta. Tossed with sweet and tangy dried cranberries and a zesty lemon dressing, this salad is both refreshing and satisfying. Serve it as a side dish or add some protein like grilled chicken or tofu for a complete meal.
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Wild Rice and Cranberry Salad
Main Ingredients: Water, Chicken Broth, Wild Rice, Dried Cranberries
If you're a fan of the classic combination of wild rice and cranberries, then this salad is for you. This recipe keeps things simple with just a few ingredients including wild rice, dried cranberries, and a homemade vinaigrette dressing. It's a great option for a quick and easy side dish.
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Asian Wild Rice Salad
Main Ingredients: Wild Rice, Water, Orange Juice, Large Carrot, Celery
This Asian-inspired wild rice salad is bursting with flavor and texture. The combination of wild rice, edamame, carrots, and cabbage creates a delicious crunch that is perfectly balanced with a sweet and tangy sesame dressing. This salad is a great option for a light and healthy lunch or a side dish at dinner.
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Winter Harvest Salad with Wild Rice, Cranberries, and...
Main Ingredients: Baby Kale, Tangerines, Wild Rice, Dried Cranberries
This winter harvest salad is a great option for a cozy night in. The warm and hearty flavors of wild rice, cranberries, and butternut squash are combined with a tangy balsamic dressing to create a satisfying and flavorful dish. Serve it as a side or add some protein like roasted chicken or turkey for a complete meal.
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COLLARD WRAPS WITH WILD RICE SALAD + ORANGE MISO...
Main Ingredients: Wild Rice, Grated Carrots, Edamame Beans, Red Grapes
For a unique twist on traditional wild rice salad, try serving it in a collard wrap! This recipe combines the nutty flavors of wild rice with the freshness of vegetables like carrots, cucumber, and avocado. The tangy orange miso dressing adds a delicious and unexpected kick. Plus, it's a great option for a gluten-free and vegan meal.
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Wild Rice Salad with Grapes
Main Ingredients: Wild Rice, Bouillon Cube, Seedless Red Grapes, Celery
This wild rice salad with grapes is a perfect option for a light and refreshing summer dish. The combination of wild rice, crunchy almonds, and sweet grapes creates a unique and delicious flavor profile. Tossed in a simple vinaigrette dressing, this salad is a great addition to any summer picnic or barbecue.
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Wild Rice and Chickpea Salad
Main Ingredients: Wild Rice, Chickpeas, Grated Carrot, Celery
This wild rice and chickpea salad is a great option for a protein-packed vegetarian meal. The combination of wild rice, chickpeas, and fresh vegetables creates a delicious and filling dish. Tossed in a lemon herb dressing, this salad is perfect for a light lunch or a side dish at dinner.
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Wild Rice Burrito Bowl with Cilantro-Lime Avocado...
Main Ingredients: Iceberg Lettuce, Wild Rice, Salsa, Corn, Refried Beans
If you're a fan of burrito bowls, you have to try this wild rice version! The nutty flavors of wild rice are combined with black beans, corn, and avocado for a delicious and satisfying meal. Topped with a tangy cilantro-lime dressing, this burrito bowl is a healthier alternative to the traditional version.
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Ina's Wild Rice Salad
Main Ingredients: Wild Rice, Kosher Salt, Navel Oranges, Olive Oil
This wild rice salad recipe from Ina Garten, also known as the Barefoot Contessa, is a crowd-pleaser. It combines the nutty flavors of wild rice with the sweetness of dried cranberries and the crunch of toasted pecans. Tossed in a tangy vinaigrette dressing, this salad is sure to be a hit at any gathering.
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Holiday Wild Rice Salad
Main Ingredients: Vegetable Oil, Dijon Mustard, Pure Maple Syrup, Red
This holiday wild rice salad is the perfect addition to any festive meal. The combination of wild rice, roasted sweet potatoes, and dried cranberries creates a delicious and colorful dish. Tossed in a maple dijon dressing, this salad is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.
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Wild Rice Herb Salad with Orange Vinaigrette
Main Ingredients: Wild Rice, Fresh Parsley, Fresh Mint Leaves, Cherry
This wild rice herb salad is a great option for a light and refreshing summer meal. The combination of wild rice, fresh herbs, and crunchy vegetables creates a delicious and flavorful dish. Tossed in a tangy orange vinaigrette, this salad is a perfect side dish for any summer barbecue or picnic.
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Maitake Wild Rice Salad
Main Ingredients: Walnut Pieces, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Yellow Onion
This unique wild rice salad combines the nuttiness of wild rice with the earthy flavors of maitake mushrooms. Tossed with fresh herbs and a tangy lemon dressing, this salad is a great option for a light and healthy lunch or a side dish at dinner. Plus, maitake mushrooms are known for their health benefits, making this salad a nutritious choice.
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Beet Wild Rice Salad with Pistachios
Main Ingredients: Wild Rice, Salt, Red Beets, Lemon Juice, Pistachios
This colorful wild rice salad is not only beautiful but also delicious. The combination of wild rice, roasted beets, and crunchy pistachios creates a unique and flavorful dish. Tossed in a tangy balsamic dressing, this salad is a great option for a light lunch or a side dish at dinner.
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Wild Rice Salad With Dried Cranberries, Pickled...
Main Ingredients: Wild Rice, Chicken Stock, Vegetable Stock, Kosher Salt
This wild rice salad is full of unexpected flavors and textures. The combination of wild rice, dried cranberries, and pickled red onions creates a tangy and sweet flavor profile. Tossed in a creamy yogurt dressing, this salad is a great option for a light and refreshing meal.
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Fruited Pork and Wild Rice Salad
Main Ingredients: Cooked Pork Roast, Wild Rice, Walnuts, Red Onion, Fresh
This hearty wild rice salad is a great option for a filling and flavorful meal. The combination of wild rice, juicy pork tenderloin, and sweet fruits like apples and grapes creates a delicious and satisfying dish. Tossed in a tangy vinaigrette dressing, this salad is perfect for a cozy night in.
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Shredded Carrot, Arugula, and Wild Rice Salad
Main Ingredients: Wild Rice, Sliced Almonds, Pomegranate, Carrots, Baby
This colorful wild rice salad is a great option for a light and healthy meal. The combination of wild rice, shredded carrots, and peppery arugula creates a unique and refreshing flavor profile. Tossed in a tangy lemon dressing, this salad is perfect for a quick and easy lunch or a side dish at dinner.
Wild Rice: The Star of the Salad
The Power of Wild Rice
Wild rice is not only a delicious addition to this salad, but it also packs a nutritional punch. Unlike its cousin, white rice, wild rice is a whole grain that is high in fiber and protein, making it a healthier option for your diet. It also contains essential minerals such as iron, magnesium, and phosphorus, which are important for maintaining overall health. So not only does wild rice add a nutty and earthy flavor to this salad, but it also adds nutritional value.
How to Cook Wild Rice
To make the perfect wild rice for this recipe, start by rinsing 1 cup of wild rice in a fine-mesh strainer under cold running water. Then, in a medium saucepan, bring 3 cups of water to a boil and add the rinsed wild rice. Reduce the heat and let the rice simmer for about 45 minutes, or until it is tender and fully cooked. Drain any excess water and let the rice cool before adding it to the salad.
Cranberries: A Seasonal Twist
The Health Benefits of Cranberries
Not only do cranberries add a pop of festive color to this salad, but they also offer numerous health benefits. These tangy berries are rich in antioxidants and are known to promote urinary tract health and boost the immune system. They are also a good source of vitamin C and fiber, making them a great addition to any diet.
Fresh vs. Dried Cranberries
While either fresh or dried cranberries can be used in this salad, using fresh cranberries adds a nice crunch and tangy flavor. Dried cranberries, on the other hand, add a chewy texture and a sweeter taste. So feel free to experiment with both and see which one you prefer.
Herbs and Vegetables: Adding Depth of Flavor
A Variety of Flavors and Textures
This wild rice cranberry salad is not only delicious, but it also offers a variety of flavors and textures. Fresh herbs such as parsley and thyme add a bright and earthy flavor, while crunchy vegetables like celery and green onions provide a nice contrast to the chewy wild rice and cranberries.
Make It Your Own
One of the best things about this salad is that you can make it your own by adding your favorite herbs and vegetables. Want to add some sweetness? Try adding diced apples or pears. Looking for more crunch? Add some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans. The possibilities are endless, so have fun experimenting with different ingredients.
Final Thoughts
This wild rice cranberry salad is a perfect combination of seasonal flavors and textures that will leave your taste buds satisfied. It's also a great make-ahead dish, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners or holiday gatherings. So grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy this delicious and healthy salad that is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.
