Looking for a delicious and versatile side dish or main course that’s perfect for any occasion? Look no further than the humble wild rice salad. This tasty treat combines the nutty flavor of wild rice with a variety of colorful ingredients, making it a great way to add some excitement to your meal routine. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, looking for a healthy lunch option, or just need a quick and easy snack, we’ve got you covered with our collection of 20 delicious wild rice salad recipes.
From classic combinations like citrus and herb to more adventurous options like spicy southwest and maple dijon, there’s something on this list for every palate. And the best part? These salads are incredibly easy to make and can be customized to suit your tastes. So why not give one a try today and discover the amazing world of wild rice salad?
Citrus and Herb Wild Rice Salad
A refreshing and flavorful side dish that combines the nutty taste of wild rice with the brightness of citrus and herbs, perfect for a light and easy meal or as a topping for your favorite salad.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked wild rice
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
– 1 lemon, zested and juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked wild rice and mixed greens.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice, olive oil, parsley, basil, and lemon zest.
3. Pour the dressing over the rice mixture and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with additional lemon zest and parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Roasted Vegetable Wild Rice Salad
This hearty salad combines the nutty flavor of wild rice with a colorful medley of roasted vegetables, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or as a side dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wild rice
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 large yellow bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook wild rice according to package instructions using water or vegetable broth.
3. Toss sweet potato, red bell peppers, yellow bell pepper, and red onion with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until tender.
4. Add garlic to the roasted vegetables and stir to combine.
5. Combine cooked wild rice with the roasted vegetable mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Cranberry Pecan Wild Rice Salad
A refreshing and flavorful salad perfect for a light meal or as a side dish, this Cranberry Pecan Wild Rice Salad combines the nutty flavor of wild rice with the sweetness of cranberries and crunch of pecans.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked wild rice
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked wild rice, cranberries, and chopped pecans.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard.
3. Pour the dressing over the wild rice mixture and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Mediterranean Wild Rice Salad
A flavorful and nutritious salad that combines the nutty taste of wild rice with the freshness of Mediterranean herbs and spices, perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked wild rice
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked wild rice, parsley, mint leaves, feta cheese, and olives.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice.
3. Pour the dressing over the rice mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (prep time: 5 minutes)
Asian-Inspired Wild Rice Salad
This hearty salad combines the nutty flavor of wild rice with the vibrant colors and bold flavors of Asia, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked wild rice
– 2 cups mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, and bok choy)
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook wild rice according to package instructions.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked wild rice, mixed greens, red bell pepper, and cucumber.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, and grated ginger.
4. Pour dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
5. Top with sliced almonds and season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Spicy Southwest Wild Rice Salad
This flavorful salad combines the nutty taste of wild rice with the bold flavors of the Southwest. Perfect as a side dish or light lunch, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked wild rice
– 1/2 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked wild rice, black beans, red bell pepper, cilantro, and jalapeño.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice and olive oil.
3. Pour the dressing over the rice mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and cumin.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Avocado Lime Wild Rice Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional salads, this Avocado Lime Wild Rice Salad combines the creaminess of avocado with the tanginess of lime and the nutty flavor of wild rice. Perfect for a light and healthy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked wild rice
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (for added flavor)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked wild rice, diced avocado, and chopped cilantro.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and toss gently to combine.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. If using feta cheese, crumble it over the top of the salad and serve.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None required! Simply assemble the ingredients and enjoy.
Maple Dijon Wild Rice Salad
This sweet and tangy salad combines the nutty flavor of wild rice with the earthiness of roasted vegetables, all tied together with a hint of maple syrup and Dijon mustard. Perfect as a side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked wild rice
– 2 cups mixed roasted vegetables (such as Brussels sprouts, carrots, and red bell peppers)
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked wild rice, roasted vegetables, maple syrup, and Dijon mustard. Toss until well combined.
2. Top with crumbled goat cheese, if using.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (depending on preparation of roasted vegetables)
Apple Walnut Wild Rice Salad
This salad celebrates the flavors of autumn with a delightful combination of crunchy wild rice, sweet apples, and nutty walnuts. Perfect for a cozy dinner party or a quick lunch, this recipe is sure to become a seasonal favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked wild rice
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/2 cup diced apple (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked wild rice, mixed greens, diced apple, and chopped walnuts.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar and honey until well combined.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Sprinkle feta cheese on top (if using).
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Curried Wild Rice Salad with Raisins
This flavorful salad combines the nutty taste of wild rice with the warm spices of curry powder, sweet raisins, and crunchy toasted almonds. Perfect as a side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked wild rice
– 2 tablespoons curry powder
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas)
– 1/4 cup golden raisins
– 1/4 cup toasted almonds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together curry powder and olive oil.
2. Add chopped onion and mixed vegetables; toss until coated with the curry mixture.
3. Stir in cooked wild rice.
4. Fold in raisins and toasted almonds.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Wild Rice Salad
This sweet and tangy salad combines the nutty flavor of wild rice with the deep richness of balsamic glaze, making it a perfect side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked wild rice
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp balsamic glaze
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked wild rice, mixed greens, red bell pepper, and feta cheese.
2. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the salad and toss to coat.
3. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the salad just before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (excluding cooking time for wild rice)
Grilled Chicken and Wild Rice Salad
Elevate your salad game with this flavorful and nutritious recipe that combines the smoky taste of grilled chicken, savory wild rice, and a tangy dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1 cup cooked wild rice
– 2 cups mixed greens
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs (optional). Grill for 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked through.
3. In a large bowl, combine wild rice, mixed greens, feta cheese, and parsley.
4. Slice grilled chicken into strips and add to the salad.
5. Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over the top; toss to coat.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pomegranate Wild Rice Salad
A vibrant and nutritious salad that combines the sweetness of pomegranate with the earthy flavor of wild rice, perfect for a healthy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked wild rice
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds (fresh or dried)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked wild rice, mixed greens, red bell pepper, and parsley.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and white wine vinegar. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
3. Sprinkle feta cheese (if using) and pomegranate seeds on top of the salad.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato Wild Rice Salad
A flavorful and nutritious side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This salad combines the nutty taste of wild rice with the savory flavor of sun-dried tomatoes, all tied together with a tangy vinaigrette.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked wild rice
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked wild rice, parsley, basil, and feta cheese (if using).
2. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and toss gently.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and apple cider vinegar.
4. Pour the dressing over the rice mixture and toss to coat.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Kale and Wild Rice Salad
This hearty salad combines the nutty flavor of wild rice with the earthy taste of kale, perfect for a quick and nutritious meal. With minimal preparation time, this recipe is ideal for busy days.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked wild rice
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked wild rice and chopped kale.
2. Add diced red bell pepper and crumbled feta cheese (if using).
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and apple cider vinegar.
4. Pour dressing over the salad mixture and toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (cooking wild rice)
Blueberry Almond Wild Rice Salad
Elevate your salad game with this sweet and savory combination of flavors and textures. This Blueberry Almond Wild Rice Salad is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked wild rice
– 2 cups mixed greens
– 1/2 cup fresh blueberries
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked wild rice, mixed greens, blueberries, and sliced almonds.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and apple cider vinegar.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Top with crumbled feta cheese (if using).
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Garlic Herb Wild Rice Salad
This savory salad combines the nutty flavor of wild rice with the pungency of garlic and herbs, perfect for a quick and easy side dish or light lunch. With its mix of textures and flavors, it’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked wild rice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked wild rice, garlic, parsley, and thyme.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. If desired, add lemon juice for an extra burst of flavor.
4. Toss to combine and serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes (depending on serving size)
Sweet Potato Wild Rice Salad
A hearty and nutritious salad perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, featuring roasted sweet potatoes and wild rice, mixed with crunchy greens and tangy dressing.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup wild rice
– 4 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 cup chopped fresh kale
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Roast sweet potatoes for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
2. Cook wild rice according to package instructions using water or broth. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine roasted sweet potatoes, cooked wild rice, red onion, and chopped kale.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and apple cider vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Pour dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Feta and Olive Wild Rice Salad
This Mediterranean-inspired salad combines the creamy tang of feta cheese with the savory brininess of olives, all on a bed of nutty wild rice. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked wild rice
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup pitted and sliced green olives
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked wild rice, crumbled feta cheese, sliced green olives, and chopped parsley.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice; toss to coat.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None (all ingredients are pre-cooked)
Zesty Lemon Wild Rice Salad
A refreshing summer salad that combines the nutty flavor of wild rice with a burst of citrusy lemon and crunchy fresh vegetables. Perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked wild rice
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked wild rice, mixed greens, red bell pepper, and cucumber.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and olive oil.
3. Pour the lemon dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your salads game with these 20 mouthwatering wild rice salad recipes! From Citrus and Herb Wild Rice Salad to Sweet Potato Wild Rice Salad, each dish is packed with flavor and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a light and refreshing Mediterranean-inspired salad or a hearty and spicy Southwest-style option, there’s something for everyone in this collection. Discover the versatility of wild rice and take your salad-making skills to new heights with these delicious and easy-to-make recipes.
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