11 Fall Wild Rice Salads for Hearty Texture

hearty wild rice salads

Autumn Harvest Wild Rice Salad With Roasted Butternut Squash

autumn wild rice salad

Autumn Harvest Wild Rice Salad with Roasted Butternut Squash is a hearty and nutritious dish that perfectly captures the flavors of fall. This salad combines the nutty texture of wild rice with the sweetness of roasted butternut squash, crisp vegetables, and a tangy dressing, making it an ideal side or a light main dish for your autumn gatherings.

Ingredients Quantity
Wild rice 1 cup
Water 2 cups
Butternut squash, peeled and cubed 2 cups
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Salt ½ teaspoon
Black pepper ¼ teaspoon
Spinach or arugula 2 cups
Dried cranberries ½ cup
Chopped pecans or walnuts ½ cup
Feta cheese (optional) ½ cup, crumbled
Balsamic vinegar 3 tablespoons
Dijon mustard 1 teaspoon
Honey (or maple syrup) 1 teaspoon

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a medium pot, combine wild rice and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 40-45 minutes, or until tender. Drain excess water.
  3. Toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until golden and tender.
  4. In a large bowl, combine cooked wild rice, roasted butternut squash, spinach or arugula, dried cranberries, and nuts.
  5. Whisk together balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and honey in a small bowl. Drizzle over the salad and toss to combine. Top with feta cheese if desired.
  6. Serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy your flavorful Autumn Harvest Wild Rice Salad!
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Maple Cranberry Wild Rice Salad

maple cranberry wild rice salad

Maple Cranberry Wild Rice Salad is a delightful autumn dish that combines the earthy flavors of wild rice with the sweetness of maple syrup and tangy cranberries. This salad is not only vibrant and colorful but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect choice for a hearty side dish or a light meal. With the added crunch from nuts and the freshness of spinach, this salad is sure to impress your guests at any fall gathering.

Ingredients Quantity
Wild rice 1 cup
Water 2 cups
Dried cranberries ¾ cup
Spinach or mixed greens 2 cups
Chopped pecans or walnuts ½ cup
Maple syrup 3 tablespoons
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Apple cider vinegar 1 tablespoon
Salt ½ teaspoon
Black pepper ¼ teaspoon

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Rinse the wild rice and combine it with water in a medium pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 40-45 minutes until tender. Drain excess water.
  2. In a large bowl, combine cooked wild rice, dried cranberries, and spinach or mixed greens.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, and black pepper. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
  4. Add chopped nuts and mix gently. Serve warm or chilled, and enjoy your Maple Cranberry Wild Rice Salad!
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Wild Rice Salad With Grilled Apples and Walnuts

autumn wild rice salad

Wild Rice Salad With Grilled Apples and Walnuts is a delicious and wholesome autumn dish that perfectly balances savory and sweet flavors. The nutty wild rice pairs beautifully with the caramelized sweetness of grilled apples, while the crunchy walnuts add texture and richness. This salad is not only appealing to the eyes but also nutritious, making it a wonderful addition to any fall meal or gathering.

Ingredients Quantity
Wild rice 1 cup
Water 2 cups
Apples (sliced) 2 medium
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Chopped walnuts ½ cup
Fresh spinach or arugula 2 cups
Apple cider vinegar 1 tablespoon
Maple syrup 2 tablespoons
Salt ½ teaspoon
Black pepper ¼ teaspoon

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Rinse the wild rice and combine it with water in a medium pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 40-45 minutes until tender. Drain excess water.
  2. Heat a grill or grill pan over medium heat. Brush apple slices with olive oil and grill for 3-4 minutes on each side until caramelized.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked wild rice, grilled apples, and spinach or arugula.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, salt, and black pepper. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
  5. Top with chopped walnuts, mix gently, and serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy your Wild Rice Salad With Grilled Apples and Walnuts!
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Sweet Potato and Wild Rice Salad With Maple Vinaigrette

hearty fall salad recipe

Sweet Potato and Wild Rice Salad with Maple Vinaigrette is a wholesome and hearty dish that celebrates the flavors of fall. This vibrant salad features tender roasted sweet potatoes paired with nutty wild rice, creating a satisfying base that’s enhanced by a delightful maple vinaigrette. Packed with nutrients and bursting with flavor, it’s perfect as a side dish or a light main course.

Ingredients Quantity
Wild rice 1 cup
Water 2 cups
Sweet potatoes (cubed) 2 medium
Olive oil 3 tablespoons
Maple syrup 2 tablespoons
Apple cider vinegar 1 tablespoon
Salt ½ teaspoon
Black pepper ¼ teaspoon
Chopped pecans ½ cup
Fresh spinach or kale 2 cups

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Rinse the wild rice and combine with water in a pot. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer until tender (about 40-45 minutes). Drain excess water.
  2. Toss the cubed sweet potatoes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes until tender and lightly browned.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining olive oil, maple syrup, and apple cider vinegar to make the vinaigrette.
  4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked wild rice, roasted sweet potatoes, and fresh spinach or kale. Drizzle with the maple vinaigrette and toss gently.
  5. Top with chopped pecans, mix well, and serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy your Sweet Potato and Wild Rice Salad with Maple Vinaigrette!
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Harvest Grain Bowl With Wild Rice and Roasted Brussels Sprouts

harvest grain bowl recipe

The Harvest Grain Bowl with Wild Rice and Roasted Brussels Sprouts is a nourishing and colorful dish that showcases seasonal ingredients. This hearty bowl features a bed of wild rice, topped with crispy roasted Brussels sprouts, creamy avocado, and a sprinkle of pumpkin seeds. It’s a wholesome meal perfect for a filling lunch or dinner, packed with textures and flavors that celebrate the bounty of fall.

Ingredients Quantity
Wild rice 1 cup
Water 2 cups
Brussels sprouts (halved) 2 cups
Olive oil 3 tablespoons
Salt ½ teaspoon
Black pepper ¼ teaspoon
Avocado (sliced) 1 medium
Pumpkin seeds ¼ cup
Fresh parsley (chopped) 2 tablespoons
Lemon juice 1 tablespoon

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Rinse the wild rice and combine with water in a pot. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer until tender (about 40-45 minutes). Drain excess water once cooked.
  2. Toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes until crispy and golden.
  3. In a bowl, layer the cooked wild rice, topped with roasted Brussels sprouts, sliced avocado, and pumpkin seeds.
  4. Drizzle with lemon juice, sprinkle with fresh parsley, mix gently, and serve warm. Enjoy your Harvest Grain Bowl with Wild Rice and Roasted Brussels Sprouts!
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Wild Rice Salad With Cranberries and Pecans

wild rice salad recipe

Wild Rice Salad with Cranberries and Pecans is a delightful and festive dish that combines the earthiness of wild rice with the sweetness of dried cranberries and the crunch of toasted pecans. This salad is perfect for autumn gatherings or as a wholesome side dish for holiday meals. It’s not only visually appealing, but it’s also packed with nutrients, making it a nutritious choice for any table.

Ingredients Quantity
Wild rice 1 cup
Water 2 cups
Dried cranberries ½ cup
Pecans (chopped and toasted) ½ cup
Celery (chopped) 1 stalk
Red onion (finely chopped) ¼ cup
Olive oil 3 tablespoons
Apple cider vinegar 2 tablespoons
Salt ½ teaspoon
Black pepper ¼ teaspoon
Fresh parsley (chopped) 2 tablespoons

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Rinse the wild rice and combine it with water in a pot. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for about 40-45 minutes until tender. Drain any excess water.
  2. In a large bowl, mix the cooked wild rice with dried cranberries, toasted pecans, chopped celery, and red onion.
  3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, and black pepper. Pour the dressing over the salad.
  4. Toss gently to combine, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy your Wild Rice Salad with Cranberries and Pecans!
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Savory Mushroom and Wild Rice Salad

savory mushroom rice salad

Savory Mushroom and Wild Rice Salad is a hearty and flavorful dish that brings together the rich umami of sautéed mushrooms and the nutty taste of wild rice. Perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for dinner, this salad is a delightful way to celebrate the flavors of fall while also being packed with nutritional benefits, including fiber and protein.

Ingredients Quantity
Wild rice 1 cup
Water 2 cups
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Mushrooms (sliced, preferably cremini or button) 2 cups
Garlic (minced) 2 cloves
Onion (chopped) 1 medium
Fresh thyme (chopped) 1 tablespoon
Baby spinach 2 cups
Salt ½ teaspoon
Black pepper ¼ teaspoon
Fresh parsley (chopped) 2 tablespoons

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Rinse wild rice and add it to a pot with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 40-45 minutes until tender. Drain any excess water.
  2. While the rice cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until translucent.
  3. Add sliced mushrooms and fresh thyme to the skillet, cooking until the mushrooms are browned and tender. Season with salt and black pepper.
  4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked wild rice, sautéed mushrooms, and baby spinach. Toss until the spinach wilts slightly from the heat.
  5. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving, either warm or at room temperature. Enjoy your Savory Mushroom and Wild Rice Salad!
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Spinach and Wild Rice Salad With Feta and Pomegranate

colorful spinach wild rice salad

Spinach and Wild Rice Salad With Feta and Pomegranate is a vibrant and nutritious dish that combines the tender textures of wild rice and fresh spinach with the creamy tang of feta cheese and the sweetness of pomegranate seeds. This salad is an excellent option for a revitalizing lunch or a delightful side, showcasing the colorful bounty of fall.

Ingredients Quantity
Wild rice 1 cup
Water 2 cups
Fresh spinach 4 cups
Feta cheese (crumbled) ½ cup
Pomegranate seeds ½ cup
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Red wine vinegar 1 tablespoon
Honey 1 teaspoon
Salt ½ teaspoon
Black pepper ¼ teaspoon
Toasted walnuts (optional) ¼ cup

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Rinse wild rice and cook it in boiling water for about 40-45 minutes until tender. Drain excess water and let it cool.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the cooled wild rice, fresh spinach, crumbled feta, and pomegranate seeds.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, honey, salt, and black pepper to make the dressing.
  4. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. If using, sprinkle toasted walnuts on top before serving. Enjoy your Spinach and Wild Rice Salad With Feta and Pomegranate!
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Wild Rice and Chickpea Salad With Lemon-Tahini Dressing

wild rice chickpea salad

Wild Rice and Chickpea Salad With Lemon-Tahini Dressing is a hearty and protein-packed dish that combines the nutty flavors of wild rice with the creaminess of chickpeas, all balanced by a zesty lemon-tahini dressing. This salad is perfect for a satisfying lunch or as a nutrient-rich side dish that celebrates the flavors of fall.

Ingredients Quantity
Wild rice 1 cup
Water 2 cups
Canned chickpeas (drained and rinsed) 1 can (15 oz)
Cherry tomatoes (halved) 1 cup
Cucumber (diced) 1 medium
Red onion (finely chopped) ¼ cup
Fresh parsley (chopped) ¼ cup
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Tahini 3 tablespoons
Lemon juice 2 tablespoons
Garam masala 1 teaspoon
Salt ½ teaspoon
Black pepper ¼ teaspoon

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Rinse wild rice and cook it in boiling water for about 40-45 minutes until tender. Drain excess water and let it cool.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked wild rice, chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and parsley.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, tahini, lemon juice, garam masala, salt, and black pepper to prepare the dressing.
  4. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to combine. Serve chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy your Wild Rice and Chickpea Salad With Lemon-Tahini Dressing!
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Quinoa and Wild Rice Salad With Garlic Roasted Vegetables

nutritious quinoa wild rice salad

Quinoa and Wild Rice Salad With Garlic Roasted Vegetables is a vibrant and nutritious dish that blends the earthy flavors of wild rice and quinoa with an array of colorful roasted vegetables. This delightful salad is perfect for a cozy fall meal, offering a rich source of vitamins, minerals, and hearty grains that will keep you satisfied.

Ingredients Quantity
Wild rice ½ cup
Quinoa ½ cup
Water 4 cups
Bell pepper (diced) 1 medium
Zucchini (diced) 1 medium
Carrot (sliced) 1 medium
Red onion (sliced) ½ medium
Olive oil 3 tablespoons
Minced garlic 3 cloves
Dried thyme 1 teaspoon
Salt ½ teaspoon
Black pepper ¼ teaspoon
Fresh parsley (chopped) ¼ cup
Lemon juice 2 tablespoons

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and toss the bell pepper, zucchini, carrot, and red onion with olive oil, minced garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for about 20-25 minutes until tender.
  2. Meanwhile, rinse and cook the wild rice and quinoa separately in water according to package instructions until tender. Drain any excess liquid and let them cool.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked wild rice and quinoa, roasted vegetables, fresh parsley, and lemon juice.
  4. Toss gently to combine and serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy your Quinoa and Wild Rice Salad With Garlic Roasted Vegetables!

Wild Rice Pilaf With Apples and Sage

wild rice apple pilaf

Wild Rice Pilaf With Apples and Sage is a delicious and aromatic fall dish that combines the nutty flavor of wild rice with sweet apples and earthy sage. This comforting pilaf makes a perfect side dish for holiday gatherings or a wholesome main course for a cozy dinner. The fragrant herbs and fresh apples complement the rice beautifully, creating a heartwarming blend of flavors that celebrate the harvest season.

Ingredients Quantity
Wild rice 1 cup
Water 3 cups
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Onion (diced) 1 medium
Celery (diced) 1 stalk
Apple (diced, any tart variety) 1 medium
Fresh sage (chopped) 2 tablespoons
Salt ¾ teaspoon
Black pepper ¼ teaspoon
Vegetable broth 1 cup
Toasted walnuts (optional) ½ cup

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Rinse wild rice under cold water. In a saucepan, combine wild rice, water, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 45-50 minutes until rice is tender.
  2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and celery, sautéing until softened (about 5 minutes).
  3. Stir in the diced apple and chopped sage, cooking for another 3-4 minutes until the apples are slightly tender.
  4. Drain the wild rice and add it to the skillet mixture. Pour in vegetable broth and season with salt and black pepper, stirring to combine.
  5. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing flavors to meld. Stir in toasted walnuts if using, and serve warm. Enjoy your Wild Rice Pilaf With Apples and Sage!

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Hi! I’m Emily. I’m a cozy‑kitchen tinkerer turning everyday ingredients into crave‑worthy plates—quick sizzles, bright flavors, and zero fuss, always with a smile. Playlist on, whisk in hand, I chase comfort that tastes a little sparkly and a lot homemade—playful, practical, and unapologetically delicious.